Bitton 10-1 Cheltenham Spa
With the league title already wrapped up Bitton were playing for the chance to go the whole season unbeaten in their last game v Cheltenham Spa. With several player away or ill Bitton could only manage the bare 11 so this meant a few changes with Tugwell and Riley coming into the starting line up as well as veteran forward Deb Small starting up front.
The reporter arrived late after taking the now traditional trip to Macdonalds and by the time they arrived Bitton had already roared into a 3-0 lead with Bloomer cliaming her hat trick. It was contstant one way traffic with bitton misisng chance after chance but amazingly the scored remianed at only 3-0 as the ref blew his whistle for half time.
The second half continued in the same way as the first but Bitton were able to add a further 7 goals to their tally. Caplin took a throw on the left which went into Bloomer who rolled it back to Caplin on her right foot and her superb curling cross decieved everyone and found it's way into the bottom corner for a goal on her last ever game as she retires. Next to grab a goal was Tugwell who tapped in at the far post. Bitton moved a few players about with Price being given a run out up top, Doidge pushing on and Small being pushed back into defence. Bloomer scored another two before a moment we have been waiting all season for as Doidge knocked a lovely corner in and Ware arrived at the far post to poke the ball home for her first of the season. It was all Bitton and Price was presented with her chance as The keeper fumbled the ball and left Price with an open goal only 12 yards out but instead of rolling it into the empty net she went for glory and saw her her drilled effort cannon back off the bar. Further missed chances went begging for Bitton before Bloomer curled in a nice free kick for her double hat trick and she rounded off the scoring for Bitton with her 7th and Bittons 10th when she scored from the edge of the box
The win rounded off a great season for the Bitton ladies who have won the double,remained unbeaten ,have the best attack and the best defence in the league and have done it by playing some superb football.
Well done again to all the Players,Staff,Fans and officials on a truly memorable season
Have a good summer
Bring on next season!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Player of the match-Deb small- Great performance up top and at the back at the age of 52
The reporter arrived late after taking the now traditional trip to Macdonalds and by the time they arrived Bitton had already roared into a 3-0 lead with Bloomer cliaming her hat trick. It was contstant one way traffic with bitton misisng chance after chance but amazingly the scored remianed at only 3-0 as the ref blew his whistle for half time.
The second half continued in the same way as the first but Bitton were able to add a further 7 goals to their tally. Caplin took a throw on the left which went into Bloomer who rolled it back to Caplin on her right foot and her superb curling cross decieved everyone and found it's way into the bottom corner for a goal on her last ever game as she retires. Next to grab a goal was Tugwell who tapped in at the far post. Bitton moved a few players about with Price being given a run out up top, Doidge pushing on and Small being pushed back into defence. Bloomer scored another two before a moment we have been waiting all season for as Doidge knocked a lovely corner in and Ware arrived at the far post to poke the ball home for her first of the season. It was all Bitton and Price was presented with her chance as The keeper fumbled the ball and left Price with an open goal only 12 yards out but instead of rolling it into the empty net she went for glory and saw her her drilled effort cannon back off the bar. Further missed chances went begging for Bitton before Bloomer curled in a nice free kick for her double hat trick and she rounded off the scoring for Bitton with her 7th and Bittons 10th when she scored from the edge of the box
The win rounded off a great season for the Bitton ladies who have won the double,remained unbeaten ,have the best attack and the best defence in the league and have done it by playing some superb football.
Well done again to all the Players,Staff,Fans and officials on a truly memorable season
Have a good summer
Bring on next season!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Player of the match-Deb small- Great performance up top and at the back at the age of 52
Cheltenham Civil service 0-4 Bitton
We are the Champions!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Bitton clinched the Division 1 title in style with a 4-0 demolition of nearest challengers Cheltenham Civil service. In truth Bitton were never in any danger and should have won by a gretaer margin. Bitton Keeper Chloe Gallagher did not have a shot on target to save all game and Bitton had plenty of chances to win by a bigger margin.
It was an exciting end to the season as the two top sides faced each other with only two games remaining. Bitton knew that a win would hand them the title but any other result would mean it going down to the final week of the season. Bitton were confident after beating the same opposition the previous week in the league cup final and the nerves that were so evident before the final were obviously left at home this week as the Ton played some beautifull stuff to time and again rip the Civi defence wide open. In truth Bitton dominated the game last week but Civi scored 3 times on the break with the clinical Gemma Riley grabbing all 3, Bitton knew if they were to stop Civi it would be Riley who they had to watch. Sam Morgan who was fresh from picking up her managers player of the year award the previous night was giving the task of stopping the Civi striker and she produced a masterclass in man to man marking as she followed Rileys every move and matched her stride for stride not giving her an inch.It proved how effective a job she did as i can hardly remember Riley having a touch of an note in the whole game.
Bitton were straight at it from kick off and some composed passing from Jones and Ware kept good early possesion. Bitton were having plenty of joy early on especially down the right as Bloomer & Coates both showed their pace to stretch the Civi defence. After a few half chances Bitton carved out a very good one as again Bloomer powered down the right and squared for Coates but her shot was straight at the keeper. Alen & J Morgan were next to test the keeper before Bitton took the lead. Bloomer recived the ball on the edge of the box and moved it onto her left foot before volleying it across the keeper and in off the post. Civi had thjeir best chance of teh game when they had a rare break and forced a corner but the free header from 6 yards out was put wide.Coates and Bloomer had another couple of efforts and Jones had a chance at the far post when she opted to volley it instead of heading it and the chance went begging. The Bitton defence were well on top of any Civi attacks and was again Doidge & Price dished out some crunching tackles while Morgan was winning her battle with Riley and Caplin as usual was the calmingi nfluence as she kept posession. Gallagher in the Bitton goal was very vocal all game and on the rare occasion she was needed she was quick off her line and very dominant. Another player who was having a good game was Ware who had picked up the Players player of the year award the previous night and she showed why by winning plenty of the ball in the air and on the ground and along with Jones was finding the feet of J Morgan,Allen, Coates and Bloomer who were giving a real attacking threat. a real star of the previous few weeks has been Allen who since xmas has been superb putting in some superb performances and grabbing plenty of goals and it was Allen who gave Bitton a two goal cushion. Coates did well to force a stop from the keeper but ball rebounded to Allen on the edge of the box who made no mistake to double the Ton advantage. It was nearly three shortly after as Bloomer beat two players down the left and fired in a shot that cannoned off the bar. Bitton continued to press and went close on a couple of occasions from corners and the Civi keeper also made a few more good saves but Bitton could not quite force another goal and went in at half time only 2-0 up when the game could have already been over.
Bitton were expecting Civi to have a real go in the second half but the expected onslaught never camesand for what was basically a league decider it was a pretty tame affair. Doidge & Price even had time for unscheduled dance off mid game as the ball spent most of it's time around the Civi area. Bitton forced a few more chances and there was still nerves on the touchline thinking Civi would only need one chance to get back into it. Those nerves were settle mid way through the half with a moment of class from the inform Allen, after picking the ball up on the left she jinked in and out,one way then the other turning two Civi Defenders inside out before firing a lovely shot across the keeper to make it 3-0 and pretty much wrap up the game and the title for Bitton. Super Sub Small then came on and launced into a triple back flip while bringing the ball down on her back as Bitton started to pull out the party tricks, even Bloomer tried smoething a little out of the ordinary as she completed her first pass of the season.There was still time for a fourth as Coates got the goal she deserved when she hooked in from close range. The ref blew the full time whistle to spark the celebrations from the Bitton girls as the hardwork over the season had finally paid off and they were champions fo the GCWFL Division 1.
Congratulations to manager Paull Passaway and the team on an incredible season where they have played some wonderfull footbball and are deserved champions.
They are still due to play one final league fixture v Cheltenham Spa but it is uncertain if Spa will travel or not.
Bitton are still waiting to hear when they will be presented with the league trophy.
Player of the match-Sam morgan- Riley of Civi will be glad to see the back of her
Bitton clinched the Division 1 title in style with a 4-0 demolition of nearest challengers Cheltenham Civil service. In truth Bitton were never in any danger and should have won by a gretaer margin. Bitton Keeper Chloe Gallagher did not have a shot on target to save all game and Bitton had plenty of chances to win by a bigger margin.
It was an exciting end to the season as the two top sides faced each other with only two games remaining. Bitton knew that a win would hand them the title but any other result would mean it going down to the final week of the season. Bitton were confident after beating the same opposition the previous week in the league cup final and the nerves that were so evident before the final were obviously left at home this week as the Ton played some beautifull stuff to time and again rip the Civi defence wide open. In truth Bitton dominated the game last week but Civi scored 3 times on the break with the clinical Gemma Riley grabbing all 3, Bitton knew if they were to stop Civi it would be Riley who they had to watch. Sam Morgan who was fresh from picking up her managers player of the year award the previous night was giving the task of stopping the Civi striker and she produced a masterclass in man to man marking as she followed Rileys every move and matched her stride for stride not giving her an inch.It proved how effective a job she did as i can hardly remember Riley having a touch of an note in the whole game.
Bitton were straight at it from kick off and some composed passing from Jones and Ware kept good early possesion. Bitton were having plenty of joy early on especially down the right as Bloomer & Coates both showed their pace to stretch the Civi defence. After a few half chances Bitton carved out a very good one as again Bloomer powered down the right and squared for Coates but her shot was straight at the keeper. Alen & J Morgan were next to test the keeper before Bitton took the lead. Bloomer recived the ball on the edge of the box and moved it onto her left foot before volleying it across the keeper and in off the post. Civi had thjeir best chance of teh game when they had a rare break and forced a corner but the free header from 6 yards out was put wide.Coates and Bloomer had another couple of efforts and Jones had a chance at the far post when she opted to volley it instead of heading it and the chance went begging. The Bitton defence were well on top of any Civi attacks and was again Doidge & Price dished out some crunching tackles while Morgan was winning her battle with Riley and Caplin as usual was the calmingi nfluence as she kept posession. Gallagher in the Bitton goal was very vocal all game and on the rare occasion she was needed she was quick off her line and very dominant. Another player who was having a good game was Ware who had picked up the Players player of the year award the previous night and she showed why by winning plenty of the ball in the air and on the ground and along with Jones was finding the feet of J Morgan,Allen, Coates and Bloomer who were giving a real attacking threat. a real star of the previous few weeks has been Allen who since xmas has been superb putting in some superb performances and grabbing plenty of goals and it was Allen who gave Bitton a two goal cushion. Coates did well to force a stop from the keeper but ball rebounded to Allen on the edge of the box who made no mistake to double the Ton advantage. It was nearly three shortly after as Bloomer beat two players down the left and fired in a shot that cannoned off the bar. Bitton continued to press and went close on a couple of occasions from corners and the Civi keeper also made a few more good saves but Bitton could not quite force another goal and went in at half time only 2-0 up when the game could have already been over.
Bitton were expecting Civi to have a real go in the second half but the expected onslaught never camesand for what was basically a league decider it was a pretty tame affair. Doidge & Price even had time for unscheduled dance off mid game as the ball spent most of it's time around the Civi area. Bitton forced a few more chances and there was still nerves on the touchline thinking Civi would only need one chance to get back into it. Those nerves were settle mid way through the half with a moment of class from the inform Allen, after picking the ball up on the left she jinked in and out,one way then the other turning two Civi Defenders inside out before firing a lovely shot across the keeper to make it 3-0 and pretty much wrap up the game and the title for Bitton. Super Sub Small then came on and launced into a triple back flip while bringing the ball down on her back as Bitton started to pull out the party tricks, even Bloomer tried smoething a little out of the ordinary as she completed her first pass of the season.There was still time for a fourth as Coates got the goal she deserved when she hooked in from close range. The ref blew the full time whistle to spark the celebrations from the Bitton girls as the hardwork over the season had finally paid off and they were champions fo the GCWFL Division 1.
Congratulations to manager Paull Passaway and the team on an incredible season where they have played some wonderfull footbball and are deserved champions.
They are still due to play one final league fixture v Cheltenham Spa but it is uncertain if Spa will travel or not.
Bitton are still waiting to hear when they will be presented with the league trophy.
Player of the match-Sam morgan- Riley of Civi will be glad to see the back of her
Bitton 4-3 Cheltenham Civil Service-Lge Cup final
Bitton lifted the League cup final trophy after a hard fought 4-3 win over rivals Cheltenham Civil service. Bitton were the better side and deserved their victory with Cheltenham scoring from their only 3 shots on target. Some resolute defedning from Cheltenham combined with a bit of nervous finishing from Bitton meant the result was in doubt right up to the final whistle.
Despite some very nervous passing Bitton started the game well on top and Cheltenham were struggling to get out of their half in the first 10 minutes. Blomoer headed wide and Allen failed to control a ball after she was put in on goal by Jones. Civil seemed to have about 20 goal kicks early on as Bitton aplied the presure but despite the pressure Bitton apperaed to be letting the occasion get the better of them as they seemed rushed and were failing to find feet with their passing. In typical style Bitton made the job that little bit harder as completely against the run of play Civi opened the scoing with their first attack. They forced a corner and after the initial effort was cleared it was put back into the box where their dangerous top scorer Gemma Riley was on hand to stab home with the Bitton defence calling for offside. It was still all Bitton but civi had a couple of players who were loking decent Riley was always a threat and Brisland was doing well on the right, Lockett was battling well in midfield but it was the number 8 on the left wing and 6 at the back who appeared to be their standout players. 6 in paticular appeared to be stopping half the Bitton attacks on her own as time and again she thwarted Bloomer. Coates was having a bit more luck and wriggled away from her marker on a few occasions but the final ball was just misisng. Bitton drew level in controversial circumstances as Jones played a ball over the top to put Bloomer away, her pace just got her ahead of the Civi number 6 who brought her crashing down as she raced in on goal. The ref decided to only issue a yellow card when she was clearly the last player and was probably fortunate for Civi as she went on to have an excellent game. Allen stepped up to take the free kick from 25 yards and the keeper seemed to misjudge the ball and palm it into the net to draw Bitton level. Bloomer then had had chance but was denied by a last ditch tackle and then lifted a shot onto the bar with the keeper well beaten. Bitton were having plenty of possesion but the bobbly pitch meant the ball was spending a lot of time in the air. Civi did threaten a bit more towards the end of the half but some strong tackles from Doidge & Price meant they could not get a shot away. S Morgan was sticking tight to Riley and Bitton continued to be on top. It took till the 43rd minute for another goal and it was Another Allen free kick as this time from the other side she floated a ball in that seemed to take a deflection and go into the far corner for a 2-1 Bitton half time lead.
The second half started in a similiar pattern to the first with Bitton on top and Civi looking to hit on the break with the pace of their forwards. Special mention to the Civi keeper who made a few good saves all afternoon but one from a miscued civi clearance where she changed direction and pushed it wide for a corner was superb. Bitton made a double substitution on 55 minutes bringing Wood & Tugwell on for J Morgan & Coates. Bitton were now peppering the Civi goal as Bloomer and Wood both hit shots wide before Doidge fired in a great strike from the edge of the box that had the keeper well beaten but unfortunately struck the post and rolled across the line where Wood could not quite get to tap home the rebound. It was mentioned in the crowd that Bitton could regret not taking these chances and it was proved as Civi scored their equaliser with their second shot on target. It was that girl Riley again who did really well to skip past two challenges and fire a toe poke from the edge of the area that Gallagher could not react too. Bitton responded in this excellent cup tie within a minute as Wood showed her class when cutting in from the right and curling a beautifull strike left footed into the top corner to regain the lead. Bitton were now looking for what they thought would be a killer fourth goal and two goal cushion and Bloomer hit one just over before Allen did well down the right and crossed with nobody in the box. Civi had shouts for a penalty as they played a deep cross into the box and it looked like some players colided at the far post but the ref waved played on before Bitton had their own appeals turned down for a handball in the box. Bitton started to finally relax and played a bit fo football with fullbacks Doidge and Caplin in patiuclar passing the ball well and after some good work down the right by Allen, Bitton got that all important fourth as she crossed and Wood beat the keeper to tap home. It appeared like Bitton thought that might be it with only 10 minutes left but Civi showed good character to come back once again and no surprise it was Riley who beat Gallagher to the ball to fire home her hat trick and Civi's 3rd from 3 attempts. In fairness the late onslaught that was expected never came and only a rushed clearance from Price caused any concerns in the final minutes as Bitton wound the clock down to claim the victory.
After two previous final defeats it was nice to finally get our hands on the cup as captain Becky Jones lifted the cup for the first time in Bittosn history
The two sides will now meet again next week in a potential league decider.
Player of the match-Sarah Doidge
Civi star player-Gemma Riley
Despite some very nervous passing Bitton started the game well on top and Cheltenham were struggling to get out of their half in the first 10 minutes. Blomoer headed wide and Allen failed to control a ball after she was put in on goal by Jones. Civil seemed to have about 20 goal kicks early on as Bitton aplied the presure but despite the pressure Bitton apperaed to be letting the occasion get the better of them as they seemed rushed and were failing to find feet with their passing. In typical style Bitton made the job that little bit harder as completely against the run of play Civi opened the scoing with their first attack. They forced a corner and after the initial effort was cleared it was put back into the box where their dangerous top scorer Gemma Riley was on hand to stab home with the Bitton defence calling for offside. It was still all Bitton but civi had a couple of players who were loking decent Riley was always a threat and Brisland was doing well on the right, Lockett was battling well in midfield but it was the number 8 on the left wing and 6 at the back who appeared to be their standout players. 6 in paticular appeared to be stopping half the Bitton attacks on her own as time and again she thwarted Bloomer. Coates was having a bit more luck and wriggled away from her marker on a few occasions but the final ball was just misisng. Bitton drew level in controversial circumstances as Jones played a ball over the top to put Bloomer away, her pace just got her ahead of the Civi number 6 who brought her crashing down as she raced in on goal. The ref decided to only issue a yellow card when she was clearly the last player and was probably fortunate for Civi as she went on to have an excellent game. Allen stepped up to take the free kick from 25 yards and the keeper seemed to misjudge the ball and palm it into the net to draw Bitton level. Bloomer then had had chance but was denied by a last ditch tackle and then lifted a shot onto the bar with the keeper well beaten. Bitton were having plenty of possesion but the bobbly pitch meant the ball was spending a lot of time in the air. Civi did threaten a bit more towards the end of the half but some strong tackles from Doidge & Price meant they could not get a shot away. S Morgan was sticking tight to Riley and Bitton continued to be on top. It took till the 43rd minute for another goal and it was Another Allen free kick as this time from the other side she floated a ball in that seemed to take a deflection and go into the far corner for a 2-1 Bitton half time lead.
The second half started in a similiar pattern to the first with Bitton on top and Civi looking to hit on the break with the pace of their forwards. Special mention to the Civi keeper who made a few good saves all afternoon but one from a miscued civi clearance where she changed direction and pushed it wide for a corner was superb. Bitton made a double substitution on 55 minutes bringing Wood & Tugwell on for J Morgan & Coates. Bitton were now peppering the Civi goal as Bloomer and Wood both hit shots wide before Doidge fired in a great strike from the edge of the box that had the keeper well beaten but unfortunately struck the post and rolled across the line where Wood could not quite get to tap home the rebound. It was mentioned in the crowd that Bitton could regret not taking these chances and it was proved as Civi scored their equaliser with their second shot on target. It was that girl Riley again who did really well to skip past two challenges and fire a toe poke from the edge of the area that Gallagher could not react too. Bitton responded in this excellent cup tie within a minute as Wood showed her class when cutting in from the right and curling a beautifull strike left footed into the top corner to regain the lead. Bitton were now looking for what they thought would be a killer fourth goal and two goal cushion and Bloomer hit one just over before Allen did well down the right and crossed with nobody in the box. Civi had shouts for a penalty as they played a deep cross into the box and it looked like some players colided at the far post but the ref waved played on before Bitton had their own appeals turned down for a handball in the box. Bitton started to finally relax and played a bit fo football with fullbacks Doidge and Caplin in patiuclar passing the ball well and after some good work down the right by Allen, Bitton got that all important fourth as she crossed and Wood beat the keeper to tap home. It appeared like Bitton thought that might be it with only 10 minutes left but Civi showed good character to come back once again and no surprise it was Riley who beat Gallagher to the ball to fire home her hat trick and Civi's 3rd from 3 attempts. In fairness the late onslaught that was expected never came and only a rushed clearance from Price caused any concerns in the final minutes as Bitton wound the clock down to claim the victory.
After two previous final defeats it was nice to finally get our hands on the cup as captain Becky Jones lifted the cup for the first time in Bittosn history
The two sides will now meet again next week in a potential league decider.
Player of the match-Sarah Doidge
Civi star player-Gemma Riley
Bitton 6-1 Dursley
Still not playing to their potential but another comfortable win for Bitton as they put 6 past bottom side Dursley.
In fairness despite Bitton missing a shed load of chances again Dursley did not play like a side at the bottom of the table. They had two good forwards who caused Bitton problems and defended well with a well used offside trap.
Bitton had already missed 3 one on ones when they took the lead, Wood found space down the right and she crossed for Bloomer who beat the keeper to the ball to poke home. Bloomer then hit the post twice in quick succesion and the Dursley keeper made a couple of very good saves one in paticular from Allen was superb. Bitton were being frustrated by the offisde trap of Dursley and tiome and again the linesman had his flag up as Bitton players strayed into offside positions. Bitton did finally extend their lead as Wood hit a free kick from 25yds that beat the keeper but struck the post and bounced down on the line, Jones won the race as a que of Bitton players waiting to tap the ball home and she bundled the ball in off her knee. Bitton were hoping teh floodgates would open and a big score was on teh cards but after a few previous warnings Bitton were pegged back as the pacy Dursly forward raced clear and smashed the ball past Gallagher.Almost immediately Bitton restored their 2 goals advantage as Allen broke free and fired home The half continued with Bitton on top missing more chances and Dursley looking dangerous on the break.
The second period started with a very early goal from Bloomer to make it 4-1 but as in the first half Bitton were being frustrated by the offside flag and once again were very wasteful in front of goal. They got a fifth when Wood cut in from the left and fired home and the final goal of the game came from Caplin who hit a shot from 25 yards that somehow squirmed under the keeper.
Another win and Bitton have now won their last 7 league games scoring a impressive 46 goals. The title looks like going down the wire but before that Bitton turn their attentions to next week and the League cup final v Cheltenham Civil Service.
Player of the match- Crystal Caplin- Solid display with a rare goal
In fairness despite Bitton missing a shed load of chances again Dursley did not play like a side at the bottom of the table. They had two good forwards who caused Bitton problems and defended well with a well used offside trap.
Bitton had already missed 3 one on ones when they took the lead, Wood found space down the right and she crossed for Bloomer who beat the keeper to the ball to poke home. Bloomer then hit the post twice in quick succesion and the Dursley keeper made a couple of very good saves one in paticular from Allen was superb. Bitton were being frustrated by the offisde trap of Dursley and tiome and again the linesman had his flag up as Bitton players strayed into offside positions. Bitton did finally extend their lead as Wood hit a free kick from 25yds that beat the keeper but struck the post and bounced down on the line, Jones won the race as a que of Bitton players waiting to tap the ball home and she bundled the ball in off her knee. Bitton were hoping teh floodgates would open and a big score was on teh cards but after a few previous warnings Bitton were pegged back as the pacy Dursly forward raced clear and smashed the ball past Gallagher.Almost immediately Bitton restored their 2 goals advantage as Allen broke free and fired home The half continued with Bitton on top missing more chances and Dursley looking dangerous on the break.
The second period started with a very early goal from Bloomer to make it 4-1 but as in the first half Bitton were being frustrated by the offside flag and once again were very wasteful in front of goal. They got a fifth when Wood cut in from the left and fired home and the final goal of the game came from Caplin who hit a shot from 25 yards that somehow squirmed under the keeper.
Another win and Bitton have now won their last 7 league games scoring a impressive 46 goals. The title looks like going down the wire but before that Bitton turn their attentions to next week and the League cup final v Cheltenham Civil Service.
Player of the match- Crystal Caplin- Solid display with a rare goal
Bitton 5-0 Quedgley
We have twice before won in the Semi final of the league cup and on both occasions it took a mammouth effort and for all players to be at the top of the game. On Sunday Bitton faced a team who they had put 10 past the previous week and who only turned up with 10 players for a game that would earn the winners a spot in the final. Bitton never really got out of first gear and ended up winning 5-0 at a canter.
Bitton changed formation and opted for a 3-5-2 and it was clear from the off it would be a case of how many golas Bitton scored. At times it was too easy and Bitton had the game pretty much wrapped up after 10 minutes. Firstly Jones fired home from the edge of the area and then Bloomer drilled home a loose ball after shrugging off a defender. Bitton wasted chance after chance to extend their lead with almost every Bitton player after shots at goal. They finally got the third when Jones stabbed home at the second attempt after her initial effort had been blocked. 3-0 at half time and everyone expected the floodgates to open in the second half.
It was four straight from the restart as J Morgan headed home a cross and it looked like we may see some goals.Credit to Quedgley who unlike last week kept kept going right to the end and frustrated Bitton and with the combination of some good defending and poor finishing the score stayed like this right to the 80th minute. Bitton did grab a fifth as Coates broke free and slotted home and it really should have been 6 as Allen was brought down for a penalty but unfortunately ware saw her spot kick well saved by the keeper.
So despite a 5-0 Semi final win the atmosphere was a bit flat as the Bitton girls know they can do much better
Final will be played on the 28th April at Yate Town Fc against Cheltenham Civil service
Player of the match-Chloe Gallagher-had the patinece not to lay down this week and for staying on the pitch(great discipline)
Bitton changed formation and opted for a 3-5-2 and it was clear from the off it would be a case of how many golas Bitton scored. At times it was too easy and Bitton had the game pretty much wrapped up after 10 minutes. Firstly Jones fired home from the edge of the area and then Bloomer drilled home a loose ball after shrugging off a defender. Bitton wasted chance after chance to extend their lead with almost every Bitton player after shots at goal. They finally got the third when Jones stabbed home at the second attempt after her initial effort had been blocked. 3-0 at half time and everyone expected the floodgates to open in the second half.
It was four straight from the restart as J Morgan headed home a cross and it looked like we may see some goals.Credit to Quedgley who unlike last week kept kept going right to the end and frustrated Bitton and with the combination of some good defending and poor finishing the score stayed like this right to the 80th minute. Bitton did grab a fifth as Coates broke free and slotted home and it really should have been 6 as Allen was brought down for a penalty but unfortunately ware saw her spot kick well saved by the keeper.
So despite a 5-0 Semi final win the atmosphere was a bit flat as the Bitton girls know they can do much better
Final will be played on the 28th April at Yate Town Fc against Cheltenham Civil service
Player of the match-Chloe Gallagher-had the patinece not to lay down this week and for staying on the pitch(great discipline)
Bitton 10-1 Quedgley
Bitton picked up 3 points with their biggest win of the season as they hit 7 second half goals to put 10 past Quedgley.
With both Wood & Price missing from last weeks game there was a few changes in the Bitton line up and Bloomer & Knight were the players who came in to replace them.
With Quedgley turning up in their home kit which was almost identical to Bttons it was a strange sight to see the away side lininig up in the Bitton away kit after borrowing our shirts. As is traditional now Bitton got off to a slow start and the first 15 minutes were very scrappy with both teams struggling to adjust to the now hard bobbly pitch. And then as we did last week we fell behind as a lofted ball over the defence was left by everyone and the home striker volleyed home. Going behind seemed to stir Bitton into a bit of life and they equalised 5 minutes later with Bloomer for once the supplier as the played a ball over the top for Allen to run onto and fire past the keeper. Bitton were well on top but Quedgley were getting everyone behind the ball and making it difficult. There was a few chances that went begging before Bloomer put us in front when she fired home a loose ball in the penalty area. The game was still very scrappy with Bitton in control but not quite getting their passing game together, they did make it 3-1 however when J Morgan latched onto a Coates ball and expertly lobbed the keeper.
After the untidy first half where Quedgley frustrated Bitton nobody was expecting the second half to come to life as it did and with 5 minutes it was 4-1 as Allen hit a great strike from 30 yards wide on the left that sailed over the keepers head. Bitton were looking much better now and seemed to have got to grips with the pitch as the ball was worked from left to right by Ware and Jones before reaching Coates who smashed the ball into the roof of the net for Bittons 5th. From this point Quedgley seemed to give up hope and Bitton were finding time and space all over the pitch. they were guilty of some sloppy finishing that could have seen them grab a lot more goals. Allen tried a deft lob as she looked for her hat trick but it clipped the bar and Ware hit a series of good corners in but Bitton could not quite finish. They finally got a sixth when Jones hit a side foot shot from 25 yards that the keeper somehow misjudged and allowed to spill over the line. Allen, Jones and Ware all had efforts saved by the keeper before the most rare of sights. The ball fell in the Penalty area and The Bitton player took a great touch round the defender and fired home, everyone including herself was surprised to see it was Sam Morgan who had scored, her first ever in a long career that has seen many own goals but never one in the right net(untill now). At the other end Gallagher was a spectator for most of the second half and even had time for a lie down on a few ocassions as Jones & Ware were given the freedom of the park to set up chance after chance. Bitton got their 8th and it was Allen who completed her hat trick as she drove into the box and slotted home with ease. It was 9 soon after as Coates made ground into the box and hit a crisp left foot drive across the keeper. Bitton went looking for number 10 and it should have arrived after sub Deb Small was in on goal but after rounding the keeper she hit a weak shot that was cleared off the line. It was 10 only 2 minutes later when another sub Tugwell forcedthe keeper into another error and fired low into the net.
A good win in the end but despite not playing well first half could have seen a greater scoreline after a good second half. The two teams meet again next week in the league cup semi final
Player of the match-Kylie Allen-2nd week running as she grabbed a hat trick and is starting to show her great promise.
With both Wood & Price missing from last weeks game there was a few changes in the Bitton line up and Bloomer & Knight were the players who came in to replace them.
With Quedgley turning up in their home kit which was almost identical to Bttons it was a strange sight to see the away side lininig up in the Bitton away kit after borrowing our shirts. As is traditional now Bitton got off to a slow start and the first 15 minutes were very scrappy with both teams struggling to adjust to the now hard bobbly pitch. And then as we did last week we fell behind as a lofted ball over the defence was left by everyone and the home striker volleyed home. Going behind seemed to stir Bitton into a bit of life and they equalised 5 minutes later with Bloomer for once the supplier as the played a ball over the top for Allen to run onto and fire past the keeper. Bitton were well on top but Quedgley were getting everyone behind the ball and making it difficult. There was a few chances that went begging before Bloomer put us in front when she fired home a loose ball in the penalty area. The game was still very scrappy with Bitton in control but not quite getting their passing game together, they did make it 3-1 however when J Morgan latched onto a Coates ball and expertly lobbed the keeper.
After the untidy first half where Quedgley frustrated Bitton nobody was expecting the second half to come to life as it did and with 5 minutes it was 4-1 as Allen hit a great strike from 30 yards wide on the left that sailed over the keepers head. Bitton were looking much better now and seemed to have got to grips with the pitch as the ball was worked from left to right by Ware and Jones before reaching Coates who smashed the ball into the roof of the net for Bittons 5th. From this point Quedgley seemed to give up hope and Bitton were finding time and space all over the pitch. they were guilty of some sloppy finishing that could have seen them grab a lot more goals. Allen tried a deft lob as she looked for her hat trick but it clipped the bar and Ware hit a series of good corners in but Bitton could not quite finish. They finally got a sixth when Jones hit a side foot shot from 25 yards that the keeper somehow misjudged and allowed to spill over the line. Allen, Jones and Ware all had efforts saved by the keeper before the most rare of sights. The ball fell in the Penalty area and The Bitton player took a great touch round the defender and fired home, everyone including herself was surprised to see it was Sam Morgan who had scored, her first ever in a long career that has seen many own goals but never one in the right net(untill now). At the other end Gallagher was a spectator for most of the second half and even had time for a lie down on a few ocassions as Jones & Ware were given the freedom of the park to set up chance after chance. Bitton got their 8th and it was Allen who completed her hat trick as she drove into the box and slotted home with ease. It was 9 soon after as Coates made ground into the box and hit a crisp left foot drive across the keeper. Bitton went looking for number 10 and it should have arrived after sub Deb Small was in on goal but after rounding the keeper she hit a weak shot that was cleared off the line. It was 10 only 2 minutes later when another sub Tugwell forcedthe keeper into another error and fired low into the net.
A good win in the end but despite not playing well first half could have seen a greater scoreline after a good second half. The two teams meet again next week in the league cup semi final
Player of the match-Kylie Allen-2nd week running as she grabbed a hat trick and is starting to show her great promise.
Cheltenham Spa 1-8 Bitton
Just for a change this game was played out on a bitterly cold afternoon as Bitton looked to take the chance to take over top spot with league leaders AEK Boco not in action.
Bitton came flying out the traps and Wood, Coates and Allen had chances within the first 2 minutes. Despite some pretty poor play from Bitton where they missed chances and were losing tackles they continued to dominate but were caught with a sucker punch in only the tenth minute. Spa broke and the ball found its way to their dangerous striker who skipped between Price & S Morgan and lobed Gallagher from 25 yards. The early set back shook Bitton and they continued to not meet the recent standards they have set. Allen was one exception to the general lack of performance as she went on to have her best game in a Bitton shirt, time and again she beat her marker all afternoon and delivered dangerous balls into the box. Bitton were forced to make an early change as Coates hobbled off after failing to overcome the back injury she picked up last week and was relpaced by Bloomer. Bitton continued to press and should have scored when Wood knockled a great ball into the box but nobody could get a touch. Bloomer was starting to cause problems with her direct running and hit was her run that drew Bitton level. After a nice pass form Jones, Bloomer raced away and after the keeper made a great stop from her effort Wood was on hand to fire into the roof of the net. Jones was next to miss a chance as she fired wide from the edge of the box with her left and J Morgan & Allen then combined with the latter shooting just wide. Despite the dominance and having over 20 chances Bitton went into the break all square. Bitton eased the pressure early in the second half with goals by J Morgan and Allen to give them a 3-1 lead. Bloomer was next on the scoresheet as she tried a long range effort that the keeper could not hold. Bitton now relaxed with a nice cusion and started to play some better football with Wood and in paticular Allen getting a lot of joy down the flanks. J Morgan grabbed her second from the edge of the box before Allen joined her on 2 goals in the game when she went a fine solo run down the left before beating the keeper at her near post. Not wanting to miss out Bloomer took her own tally to two when she out muscled two defenders to fire home after seeing her initial shot parried. With the score at 7-1 and time running out the race was on to see who get their hat trick with J Morgan, Allen & Bloomer all on two. The winner was Morgan as she charged down a keepers clearance and saw the ball bounced up over the keeper and bounce on the line for a simple tap in. 8-1 and a Morgan hat trick was the final outcome in a game which could have been even more flattering to Bitton but a combination of some reall dogged defending by Spa and some wastefull finsihing kept the score in single figures..
The result took Bitton top as they go into a double header of home games v Quedgley. The first is in the league before the two teams meet the following week in the league cup Semi final.
Player of the match-Kylie Allen
Cheltenham Spa Star player-Young 16 yr old centre back [playing her first senior game
Bitton came flying out the traps and Wood, Coates and Allen had chances within the first 2 minutes. Despite some pretty poor play from Bitton where they missed chances and were losing tackles they continued to dominate but were caught with a sucker punch in only the tenth minute. Spa broke and the ball found its way to their dangerous striker who skipped between Price & S Morgan and lobed Gallagher from 25 yards. The early set back shook Bitton and they continued to not meet the recent standards they have set. Allen was one exception to the general lack of performance as she went on to have her best game in a Bitton shirt, time and again she beat her marker all afternoon and delivered dangerous balls into the box. Bitton were forced to make an early change as Coates hobbled off after failing to overcome the back injury she picked up last week and was relpaced by Bloomer. Bitton continued to press and should have scored when Wood knockled a great ball into the box but nobody could get a touch. Bloomer was starting to cause problems with her direct running and hit was her run that drew Bitton level. After a nice pass form Jones, Bloomer raced away and after the keeper made a great stop from her effort Wood was on hand to fire into the roof of the net. Jones was next to miss a chance as she fired wide from the edge of the box with her left and J Morgan & Allen then combined with the latter shooting just wide. Despite the dominance and having over 20 chances Bitton went into the break all square. Bitton eased the pressure early in the second half with goals by J Morgan and Allen to give them a 3-1 lead. Bloomer was next on the scoresheet as she tried a long range effort that the keeper could not hold. Bitton now relaxed with a nice cusion and started to play some better football with Wood and in paticular Allen getting a lot of joy down the flanks. J Morgan grabbed her second from the edge of the box before Allen joined her on 2 goals in the game when she went a fine solo run down the left before beating the keeper at her near post. Not wanting to miss out Bloomer took her own tally to two when she out muscled two defenders to fire home after seeing her initial shot parried. With the score at 7-1 and time running out the race was on to see who get their hat trick with J Morgan, Allen & Bloomer all on two. The winner was Morgan as she charged down a keepers clearance and saw the ball bounced up over the keeper and bounce on the line for a simple tap in. 8-1 and a Morgan hat trick was the final outcome in a game which could have been even more flattering to Bitton but a combination of some reall dogged defending by Spa and some wastefull finsihing kept the score in single figures..
The result took Bitton top as they go into a double header of home games v Quedgley. The first is in the league before the two teams meet the following week in the league cup Semi final.
Player of the match-Kylie Allen
Cheltenham Spa Star player-Young 16 yr old centre back [playing her first senior game
Downend 5-1 Bitton
Bitton went out of the GFA cup at the semi final stage as they lost 5-1 to SWWPL side Downend who are two divisions higher on a bitterly cold day. Bitton were leading 1-0 at half time thanks to a sublime Jones volley and in truth should have been further ahead in the 1st period. Downend were the better side for the 2nd half and equalised early on. The score was still 1-1 with 15 minute left before a late Bitton collapse saw Downend grab 4 more goals to adavnce to the final.
Before todays game Downend were the only side to beat Bitton this season when they won 4-2 in the FA cup. On that day Bitton dominated and took a 2 goal lead in the first half before Downend came on strong in the second period to take the win
Due to the recent poor weather the game was switched to the 3g surface at keynsham with a 4.30pm ko. With Downend training on the surface every week Bitton were a bit worried that it may give them a advantage but as it turned out it did not seem to change the way either side played. Downend came flying out the traps and actually created 3 good chances in the opening 2 minutes. Firstly Bunker did well down the right before Stowell fired wide when breaking from midfield and then Michael really should have done better when presented with a free header 6 yards out. After the early scare Bitton settled into the game and in truth were the better side for most of the first half. The pace of Bloomer & coates caused the Downend defence plenty of problems and the Pearson in the Downned goal had to be on her toes on several occasions to stop bitton opening the scoring. Bitton thought they had taken the lead when Allen did brililantly down the left before crossing to Bloomer who fired home but as the girls celebrated the assitant referee slowly raised his flag to indicate an offside. Bitton had half a penalty appeal turned away after a foul in the box before they had a definate penalty appeal also turned down as a Downend player clearly handled the ball after a mammouth scramble in the box. Morgan did well down the right and crossed for Bloomer who fired wide before Coates wriggled away from her marker but the shot was straight at Pearson. Michael was holding up well for Downend allowing her midfielders to bomb on and it was turning into a very entertaining game. Gallagher did well to turn a Downned free kick away for a Corner before Bloomer fired two efforts straight at the Downend keeper.After some good play from both sides there was a real negative when Downend striker Slade lunnged in with a awfull tackle on Doidge that left her in a heap and with a nasty gash on her ankle but despite giving the free kick the ref decided againt even booking her when it was close to being a red. Allen again did well down the left when she won a corner and from the resulting kick Bitton finally broke the deadlock. Caplin knocked in a ball to the edge of the box and arriving late was Jones who saw her first time side foot volley fly past the rooted Pearson in the Downend goal. Bitton had further chances to extend their lead with Allen, & Coates having shots saved while Downned were restricted to the odd breakaway but were being well marshalled by Morgan and Price who had an excellent game at the back.
If Bitton were the better side in the first then Downend in truth dominated the second. As in the first game between the two sides Downend came on very strong in the 2nd period and looked by far the fitter side. Bitton just never got going and the forwards became very isolated. The Downend defence seemed to get to grips with the Bitton attack and the space that Coates and Bloomer found in the first half never appeared in the second. Downend had a goal dissalowed for offside before a key moment in the game. Bloomer chased a long ball and as the defender was under pressure she went to ground with very minimal contactt, not only was the free kick awarded but a yellow card was shown which angered the Bitton players after the Slade tackle in the first half went unpunished. Not sure if the Bitton players lost concentration but within 30 seconds Downend pulled level as Wilson got away from J Morgan and her shot found the bottom corner. The score remained 1-1 right up till the 75th minute with Downnend on top and creating chances and Bitton looking to hit on the counter attack. One gallagher save in paticular low to the right that kept Downend out was superb. The resitance was finally broken when Stowell found space on the edge of the box to fire home. Almost immediately after it was 3-1 as a corner was whipped in and Morgan helped it into her own net under pressure from Slade. Bitton should have pulled one back with 5 minutes remaining as Allens free kick bounced back off the bar and straight back to Jones but she somehow managed to miss from only 5 yards and Tugwell was forced out as she tried to finsih. Slade made it 4-1 in the 90th minute when she did well to meet a cross with a diving header. Bitton looked out on their feet and there second half performance was summed up when the Downned substitute Yip hit a weak shot from the edge of the box that Gallagher somehow let squirm into the corner.
5-1 was a very harsh score and it would have been a differant result had Bitton taken the chances first half. Downend however were worthy winners as they dominated the second half and we wish them well in the final v Bristol Academy
Player of the match-Meg Price
Downend star player-Kate Michael
Before todays game Downend were the only side to beat Bitton this season when they won 4-2 in the FA cup. On that day Bitton dominated and took a 2 goal lead in the first half before Downend came on strong in the second period to take the win
Due to the recent poor weather the game was switched to the 3g surface at keynsham with a 4.30pm ko. With Downend training on the surface every week Bitton were a bit worried that it may give them a advantage but as it turned out it did not seem to change the way either side played. Downend came flying out the traps and actually created 3 good chances in the opening 2 minutes. Firstly Bunker did well down the right before Stowell fired wide when breaking from midfield and then Michael really should have done better when presented with a free header 6 yards out. After the early scare Bitton settled into the game and in truth were the better side for most of the first half. The pace of Bloomer & coates caused the Downend defence plenty of problems and the Pearson in the Downned goal had to be on her toes on several occasions to stop bitton opening the scoring. Bitton thought they had taken the lead when Allen did brililantly down the left before crossing to Bloomer who fired home but as the girls celebrated the assitant referee slowly raised his flag to indicate an offside. Bitton had half a penalty appeal turned away after a foul in the box before they had a definate penalty appeal also turned down as a Downend player clearly handled the ball after a mammouth scramble in the box. Morgan did well down the right and crossed for Bloomer who fired wide before Coates wriggled away from her marker but the shot was straight at Pearson. Michael was holding up well for Downend allowing her midfielders to bomb on and it was turning into a very entertaining game. Gallagher did well to turn a Downned free kick away for a Corner before Bloomer fired two efforts straight at the Downend keeper.After some good play from both sides there was a real negative when Downend striker Slade lunnged in with a awfull tackle on Doidge that left her in a heap and with a nasty gash on her ankle but despite giving the free kick the ref decided againt even booking her when it was close to being a red. Allen again did well down the left when she won a corner and from the resulting kick Bitton finally broke the deadlock. Caplin knocked in a ball to the edge of the box and arriving late was Jones who saw her first time side foot volley fly past the rooted Pearson in the Downend goal. Bitton had further chances to extend their lead with Allen, & Coates having shots saved while Downned were restricted to the odd breakaway but were being well marshalled by Morgan and Price who had an excellent game at the back.
If Bitton were the better side in the first then Downend in truth dominated the second. As in the first game between the two sides Downend came on very strong in the 2nd period and looked by far the fitter side. Bitton just never got going and the forwards became very isolated. The Downend defence seemed to get to grips with the Bitton attack and the space that Coates and Bloomer found in the first half never appeared in the second. Downend had a goal dissalowed for offside before a key moment in the game. Bloomer chased a long ball and as the defender was under pressure she went to ground with very minimal contactt, not only was the free kick awarded but a yellow card was shown which angered the Bitton players after the Slade tackle in the first half went unpunished. Not sure if the Bitton players lost concentration but within 30 seconds Downend pulled level as Wilson got away from J Morgan and her shot found the bottom corner. The score remained 1-1 right up till the 75th minute with Downnend on top and creating chances and Bitton looking to hit on the counter attack. One gallagher save in paticular low to the right that kept Downend out was superb. The resitance was finally broken when Stowell found space on the edge of the box to fire home. Almost immediately after it was 3-1 as a corner was whipped in and Morgan helped it into her own net under pressure from Slade. Bitton should have pulled one back with 5 minutes remaining as Allens free kick bounced back off the bar and straight back to Jones but she somehow managed to miss from only 5 yards and Tugwell was forced out as she tried to finsih. Slade made it 4-1 in the 90th minute when she did well to meet a cross with a diving header. Bitton looked out on their feet and there second half performance was summed up when the Downned substitute Yip hit a weak shot from the edge of the box that Gallagher somehow let squirm into the corner.
5-1 was a very harsh score and it would have been a differant result had Bitton taken the chances first half. Downend however were worthy winners as they dominated the second half and we wish them well in the final v Bristol Academy
Player of the match-Meg Price
Downend star player-Kate Michael
Bitton 3-1 AEK Boco
Bitton closed the gap to two points with this hard fought win against Boco on a absolutely freezing day.
Bitton dominated the first half with the wind behind them and missed several good chances that could have had the game settled before the break. After some very robust challenged from the Boco players that saw a couiple of them booked the game settled and Bitton were having the majority of possesion with boco looking to counter attack using their pacy forwards. The opening goal eventually game when Wood curled in a corner from the left which the keeper seemed to misjudge and it dropped over the line. Allen, Wood, Jones and Bloomer all had efforts saved by the Boco keeper and Bloomer in paticular will feel she should have done better when presented witha free header from another Wood corner. Gallagher in the Bitton goal was mainly un troubled but she did have a couple of long range efforts which she easilly dealt with.Despite being on top it was only 1-0 at the break
The start of the second half was completely different with Boco dominating the opening 15 minutes as the wind picked up and Bitton were failing to clear their lines. Boco drew level on 50 minutes with a real route one goal. The keeper hit a massive kick which bounced once and sailed over the heads of the Bitton defence and saw the Leagues top scorer Burge racing away, the returning Knight was in pursuit but Burge did well to control and slot past a static Gallagher. The gola gave Boco some confidence and they forced several corners and caused some real panic in th e Bitton defence. Scammel had a good effort for Boco when she hit a 30 yard volley but Gallagher was alert and just managed to hold on. At this point there was only going to be one winner as Boco were pouring forward and Bitton looking all over the place. Wood was dropped back into midfield to try and sure things up a bit and this seemed to have the desired affect as Bitton began to get a hold of the ball and put a couple of passes together. Knight and S Morgan got used to strong wind and were backing off and starting to defend very well and wingers J morgan and Allen were beginning to have some joy out wide. The game was now fairly even with both sides having chances. The Boco keeper made a couple of good saves from Bloomer and Gallagher had to be alert when rushing off her line. Bitton regained the lead on 75 minutes when Doidge put in a great free kick from out wide and Wood rose highest in the box to nod home.The goal relaxed Bitton and with Boco throwing bodies forward Bitton started to pick them off at the back and cretaed seveal good chances. Jones possibly should have done better with a header from a Bloomer cross and J Morgan twice knocked dangerous crosses in that were not converted. Bitton put the game to bed with 10 minutes remaining when Jones did well in midfield and released J Morgan,she just beat the rushing keeper to the ball and rounder her and from the tightest of angles slotted the ball into the net for 3-1.
A bad tempered scrappy game but it will be the result that Bitton look back on at the end of the season.
Player of the Match-Sam morgan-Stuck to her task all day and defended well at key moments of the match.
Bitton dominated the first half with the wind behind them and missed several good chances that could have had the game settled before the break. After some very robust challenged from the Boco players that saw a couiple of them booked the game settled and Bitton were having the majority of possesion with boco looking to counter attack using their pacy forwards. The opening goal eventually game when Wood curled in a corner from the left which the keeper seemed to misjudge and it dropped over the line. Allen, Wood, Jones and Bloomer all had efforts saved by the Boco keeper and Bloomer in paticular will feel she should have done better when presented witha free header from another Wood corner. Gallagher in the Bitton goal was mainly un troubled but she did have a couple of long range efforts which she easilly dealt with.Despite being on top it was only 1-0 at the break
The start of the second half was completely different with Boco dominating the opening 15 minutes as the wind picked up and Bitton were failing to clear their lines. Boco drew level on 50 minutes with a real route one goal. The keeper hit a massive kick which bounced once and sailed over the heads of the Bitton defence and saw the Leagues top scorer Burge racing away, the returning Knight was in pursuit but Burge did well to control and slot past a static Gallagher. The gola gave Boco some confidence and they forced several corners and caused some real panic in th e Bitton defence. Scammel had a good effort for Boco when she hit a 30 yard volley but Gallagher was alert and just managed to hold on. At this point there was only going to be one winner as Boco were pouring forward and Bitton looking all over the place. Wood was dropped back into midfield to try and sure things up a bit and this seemed to have the desired affect as Bitton began to get a hold of the ball and put a couple of passes together. Knight and S Morgan got used to strong wind and were backing off and starting to defend very well and wingers J morgan and Allen were beginning to have some joy out wide. The game was now fairly even with both sides having chances. The Boco keeper made a couple of good saves from Bloomer and Gallagher had to be alert when rushing off her line. Bitton regained the lead on 75 minutes when Doidge put in a great free kick from out wide and Wood rose highest in the box to nod home.The goal relaxed Bitton and with Boco throwing bodies forward Bitton started to pick them off at the back and cretaed seveal good chances. Jones possibly should have done better with a header from a Bloomer cross and J Morgan twice knocked dangerous crosses in that were not converted. Bitton put the game to bed with 10 minutes remaining when Jones did well in midfield and released J Morgan,she just beat the rushing keeper to the ball and rounder her and from the tightest of angles slotted the ball into the net for 3-1.
A bad tempered scrappy game but it will be the result that Bitton look back on at the end of the season.
Player of the Match-Sam morgan-Stuck to her task all day and defended well at key moments of the match.
Bitton 4-1 Wotton Bassett (Aet)
Bitton eventually eased into the quarter finals of the league cup after a 4-1 win at Wotton Bassett on a freezing cold day. Despite dominating the game for long periods Bitton could not find a way past the impressive young Basset keeper and the scored were locked at 1-1 after 90 minutes meaning a further 30 minutes was required. Bitton kicked on in the extra period and eventually ran out comfortable winners.
On a bitterly cold afternoon Bitton travelled to Wotton Bassett for what was sure to be a tough game. Leading scorer Meg Bloomer was missing so Kylie Allen came back in to partner Amber Coates up front. Bassett are always a difficult opponent who defend well and always have a threat with the pacy April Polden up front and it again proved to be a very stern test for the Bitton ladies. For the first 15 minutes it was all Bassett as they pinned Bitton in and despite not really testing Gallagher in the Bitton goal they had the majority of possession and looked to be up for it while the Bitton girls looked un interested and like the cold was getting the better of them. Bassett forced several corners early on but they were well dealt with by the Bitton defence. Bitton finally started to warm up (in both ways) as they started to find a bit of space and Coates & Allen both raced clear after good passes by Jones & Doidge but on both occasions they failed to beat the small Bassett keeper. Bitton had a couple of Corners of their own next and but again the Basset keeper did really well when flying off her line to collect crosses. Coates who looked lively all game missed two more chances before Allen was set free again with a ball from Jones but her shot fell inches wide with the keeper beaten. Polden of Basset then had a shot blocked by Price and Morgan did well to clear her lines after good work by the basset winger Tidy. The first goal of the game finally came on 25 minutes as Coates wriggled free down the right before cutting in and beating the keeper at the near post. Basset did not take long to respond and drew level moments later when Polden out muscled and outpaced the Bitton defence before firing her shot straight at Gallagher but the power took it in. The rest of the half was a scrappy affair with a real midfield battle.
Official score at half time 1-1 but it as was commented on the side lines over a cup of Chicken Soup Bobbly pitch and weather 1 Football 0
Bitton were more dominant in the second half and created a string of chances which they failed to convert. Bassett were pinned back and resulted to a route one tactic trying to exploit the pace of Polden but Price & S Morgan were in good form and dealt with her fairly comfortably in the end. The Bitton players were still struggling to get their passing game going and as strange as it seemed it was the excellent right back Doidge who was looking their best attacking option as time and again she got in front of marker to steal the ball and played killer passes into the strikers. Coates who was full of running, J Morgan and Allen all had good chances but could not finish. Tugwell who had a good game on the left also had a few efforts but despite the number of chances created Bitton could just not force the ball home and extra time was needed. So despite dominating the game and the second half in particular extra time was required to try and separate the teams.
After failing to convert any of the chances created in the second period it took just 30 seconds for Bitton to go back in front during extra time. Tugwell was the scorer but the reporter unfortunately did not see the goal as they were wrestling polar bears for the last chicken soup (it was that cold) The reporter returned just in time to see Coates grab her second and Bittons third as she collected a Doidge pass to score at the second attempt after the keeper had saved her first effort. In truth it looked like Bassett then gave up a little and the fight that they had displayed earlier in the game seemed to drain out of them. Bitton were fairly comfortable and could even afford the luxury of giving Price a run out up front. There was one more goal as Coates once again showed good speed to race clear and this time made no mistake when she fired into the roof of the net. There was also an exciting moment as S Morgan(famous for her own goals) nearly got one at the right end but the ball was just deflected wide. Bitton played out the remainder of the game just trying to not get frost bite as both teams seemed to accept the game was over.
So not the best of games and both sides can play much better than this but the result was the important thing for Bitton who secure a place in the quarter final and a game vs Mitcheldean.
Player of the match-Sarah Doidge. Had a good game looking strong in the tackle and passed the ball well
Wotton Bassett star player- the excellent keeper who kept Bitton out for so long
On a bitterly cold afternoon Bitton travelled to Wotton Bassett for what was sure to be a tough game. Leading scorer Meg Bloomer was missing so Kylie Allen came back in to partner Amber Coates up front. Bassett are always a difficult opponent who defend well and always have a threat with the pacy April Polden up front and it again proved to be a very stern test for the Bitton ladies. For the first 15 minutes it was all Bassett as they pinned Bitton in and despite not really testing Gallagher in the Bitton goal they had the majority of possession and looked to be up for it while the Bitton girls looked un interested and like the cold was getting the better of them. Bassett forced several corners early on but they were well dealt with by the Bitton defence. Bitton finally started to warm up (in both ways) as they started to find a bit of space and Coates & Allen both raced clear after good passes by Jones & Doidge but on both occasions they failed to beat the small Bassett keeper. Bitton had a couple of Corners of their own next and but again the Basset keeper did really well when flying off her line to collect crosses. Coates who looked lively all game missed two more chances before Allen was set free again with a ball from Jones but her shot fell inches wide with the keeper beaten. Polden of Basset then had a shot blocked by Price and Morgan did well to clear her lines after good work by the basset winger Tidy. The first goal of the game finally came on 25 minutes as Coates wriggled free down the right before cutting in and beating the keeper at the near post. Basset did not take long to respond and drew level moments later when Polden out muscled and outpaced the Bitton defence before firing her shot straight at Gallagher but the power took it in. The rest of the half was a scrappy affair with a real midfield battle.
Official score at half time 1-1 but it as was commented on the side lines over a cup of Chicken Soup Bobbly pitch and weather 1 Football 0
Bitton were more dominant in the second half and created a string of chances which they failed to convert. Bassett were pinned back and resulted to a route one tactic trying to exploit the pace of Polden but Price & S Morgan were in good form and dealt with her fairly comfortably in the end. The Bitton players were still struggling to get their passing game going and as strange as it seemed it was the excellent right back Doidge who was looking their best attacking option as time and again she got in front of marker to steal the ball and played killer passes into the strikers. Coates who was full of running, J Morgan and Allen all had good chances but could not finish. Tugwell who had a good game on the left also had a few efforts but despite the number of chances created Bitton could just not force the ball home and extra time was needed. So despite dominating the game and the second half in particular extra time was required to try and separate the teams.
After failing to convert any of the chances created in the second period it took just 30 seconds for Bitton to go back in front during extra time. Tugwell was the scorer but the reporter unfortunately did not see the goal as they were wrestling polar bears for the last chicken soup (it was that cold) The reporter returned just in time to see Coates grab her second and Bittons third as she collected a Doidge pass to score at the second attempt after the keeper had saved her first effort. In truth it looked like Bassett then gave up a little and the fight that they had displayed earlier in the game seemed to drain out of them. Bitton were fairly comfortable and could even afford the luxury of giving Price a run out up front. There was one more goal as Coates once again showed good speed to race clear and this time made no mistake when she fired into the roof of the net. There was also an exciting moment as S Morgan(famous for her own goals) nearly got one at the right end but the ball was just deflected wide. Bitton played out the remainder of the game just trying to not get frost bite as both teams seemed to accept the game was over.
So not the best of games and both sides can play much better than this but the result was the important thing for Bitton who secure a place in the quarter final and a game vs Mitcheldean.
Player of the match-Sarah Doidge. Had a good game looking strong in the tackle and passed the ball well
Wotton Bassett star player- the excellent keeper who kept Bitton out for so long
Bitton 2-0 Bristol & West
Bitton advanced to the semi final of the gfa cup after a hard fought 2-0 win against bogey side Bristol & west. Bitton controlled the game for long spelss but on a tight muddy pitch and with a swirling wind they found it difficult to break down the experienced Bristol & west defence. They eventually found a goal on 60 minutes when Amber Coates hit a thunderous strike from 30 yards giving the keeper no chance. The second came after Meg bloomer was pulled down in the area and she picked her self up to score the penalty.
Bitton will now face Downend Flyers in the semi final on the 17th Mar
Bitton will now face Downend Flyers in the semi final on the 17th Mar
Bitton 8-3 AEK boco
Bitton produced a stunning performance to beat league leaders AEK Boco 8-3. They now sit only two points behind in second place but crucially they have 2 games in hand.
Bitton could not have asked for a better start and in particular former Boco player Amber Coates who hit a hat trick inside the opening 4 minutes. Her first came when she steered in a Bloomer cross shot and then almost immediately after she lobbed the keeper when one on one with a great finish. After some superb Bitton pressure she grabbed her quick fire treble when she poked home from close range to leave Boco stunned. To complete a crazy opening 6 minutes Bocos top scorer Burge went on a mazy run past several players and was brought down by Gallagher and a penalty was given. Gallagher saved Dinhams penalty but the Boco defender fired home the rebound for the fourth goal of the game in an incredible opening 6 minutes. After the crazy start the game settled down with Bitton continuing to dominate and Bloomer & Coates in particular were causing the Boco defence all sorts of problems. Meg Price was next to be threatening the Boco goal when she hit a free kick from 30 yards that the keeper gathered under her bar. Kylie Allen was also seeing plenty of the ball and on a number of occasions she turned her marker inside out before delivering dangerous balls into the box. As usual Doidge and Caplin were looking solid at full back and allowing Bitton to attack with good numbers as they say back to assist Price & S Morgan. Bitton got their fourth on 20 minutes with a superb team goal. The ball was worked out from the back with some slick passing and finally reached Coates wide on the right, she skipped past her marker before putting over a great cross that was controlled by Bloomer before she fired home. Bitton continued to dominate and had two goals disallowed for offside and also hit the post. The overworked Boco keeper made several good saves as she kept the score down. Even though they were well on top the Bitton defence were kept on their toes by the dangerous Burge and lively Nicholas and Scamell. Bitton grabbed goal number 5 on 40 minutes when Allen once again did well and cut into the box before firing a shot that was too hot to handle for the keeper and Bloomer tucked home the rebound. Just as the half was drawing to a close Boco managed to pull one back as Burge turned her marked and lobbed Gallagher from 25 yards.
HT 5-2
Laura Tugwell came on to replace Allen at half time and put in a good shift down the left. Shooting down the slope in the second half many expected Bitton to be hitting double figures but a combination of some good goalkeeping and wasteful finishing kept the score down. They did hit a sixth early in the 2nd period however when Bloomer used her pace and power after being played in by Jones to shrug off a defender and fired into the roof of the net to complete her own hat trick. With the game now pretty much safe Bitton did ease off on the pressure and began to get a little sloppy as they over played slightly. The football they played all afternoon was very good to watch and they showed in this game as they did in the previous one v Wotton Bassett when they pass and move and play it simple they are a very impressive side. Boco scored a consolation on 70 minutes when Ferris did well down the left and her shot was helped into the net for an own goal by Gallagher. Bitton responded immediately and Bloomer got her fourth when she slammed a loose ball home. J Morgan really should have got on the score sheet when Tugwells cross found her in acres but she mis controlled it and the chance was gone. Jones and Ware continued to dominate the middle of the park right up to the final whistle and they both had a couple of shots that never tested the keeper. Bitton got the final goal of the game as Tugwell beat the keeper to a loose ball to prod home.They had one more chance when Coates did brilliantly to wriggle away from 3 challenges but her shot was just wide with Tugwell flying In at the back post.
A superb performance from the Ton against the league leaders that leaves them in a decent position. The top four are all very close now and it should make for an interesting end to the season.
Player of the Match-Amber Coates-Quickest hat trick most people have ever seen and never stopped running all game.
Boco star player-Freya jones-kept the score in single figures with some good saves.
Bitton could not have asked for a better start and in particular former Boco player Amber Coates who hit a hat trick inside the opening 4 minutes. Her first came when she steered in a Bloomer cross shot and then almost immediately after she lobbed the keeper when one on one with a great finish. After some superb Bitton pressure she grabbed her quick fire treble when she poked home from close range to leave Boco stunned. To complete a crazy opening 6 minutes Bocos top scorer Burge went on a mazy run past several players and was brought down by Gallagher and a penalty was given. Gallagher saved Dinhams penalty but the Boco defender fired home the rebound for the fourth goal of the game in an incredible opening 6 minutes. After the crazy start the game settled down with Bitton continuing to dominate and Bloomer & Coates in particular were causing the Boco defence all sorts of problems. Meg Price was next to be threatening the Boco goal when she hit a free kick from 30 yards that the keeper gathered under her bar. Kylie Allen was also seeing plenty of the ball and on a number of occasions she turned her marker inside out before delivering dangerous balls into the box. As usual Doidge and Caplin were looking solid at full back and allowing Bitton to attack with good numbers as they say back to assist Price & S Morgan. Bitton got their fourth on 20 minutes with a superb team goal. The ball was worked out from the back with some slick passing and finally reached Coates wide on the right, she skipped past her marker before putting over a great cross that was controlled by Bloomer before she fired home. Bitton continued to dominate and had two goals disallowed for offside and also hit the post. The overworked Boco keeper made several good saves as she kept the score down. Even though they were well on top the Bitton defence were kept on their toes by the dangerous Burge and lively Nicholas and Scamell. Bitton grabbed goal number 5 on 40 minutes when Allen once again did well and cut into the box before firing a shot that was too hot to handle for the keeper and Bloomer tucked home the rebound. Just as the half was drawing to a close Boco managed to pull one back as Burge turned her marked and lobbed Gallagher from 25 yards.
HT 5-2
Laura Tugwell came on to replace Allen at half time and put in a good shift down the left. Shooting down the slope in the second half many expected Bitton to be hitting double figures but a combination of some good goalkeeping and wasteful finishing kept the score down. They did hit a sixth early in the 2nd period however when Bloomer used her pace and power after being played in by Jones to shrug off a defender and fired into the roof of the net to complete her own hat trick. With the game now pretty much safe Bitton did ease off on the pressure and began to get a little sloppy as they over played slightly. The football they played all afternoon was very good to watch and they showed in this game as they did in the previous one v Wotton Bassett when they pass and move and play it simple they are a very impressive side. Boco scored a consolation on 70 minutes when Ferris did well down the left and her shot was helped into the net for an own goal by Gallagher. Bitton responded immediately and Bloomer got her fourth when she slammed a loose ball home. J Morgan really should have got on the score sheet when Tugwells cross found her in acres but she mis controlled it and the chance was gone. Jones and Ware continued to dominate the middle of the park right up to the final whistle and they both had a couple of shots that never tested the keeper. Bitton got the final goal of the game as Tugwell beat the keeper to a loose ball to prod home.They had one more chance when Coates did brilliantly to wriggle away from 3 challenges but her shot was just wide with Tugwell flying In at the back post.
A superb performance from the Ton against the league leaders that leaves them in a decent position. The top four are all very close now and it should make for an interesting end to the season.
Player of the Match-Amber Coates-Quickest hat trick most people have ever seen and never stopped running all game.
Boco star player-Freya jones-kept the score in single figures with some good saves.
Bitton 7-1 Wotton Bassett
Bitton produced their best league performance of the season on Sunday to sweep aside a visiting Wotton bassett who had run them so close in the reverse fixture earlier in the season. On a difficult pitch Bitton showed right from the start they were going to try and get the ball down and play. Ware and in paticular Jones were finding lots of space in the middle of the park which allowed them to pick a pass. The returning Price was looking solid alongside the ever improving S Morgan which was allowing Doidge and Caplin to join in from full backs. Bitton pinned Bassett back for the opening 15 minutes and went close on several occasions none more so when Bloomer went round the keeper but instead of going to ground for a certain penalty she stayed on her feet but her shot was cleared off the line by the covering defender.Bitton finally went ahead when top scorer Bloomer raced away again before slotting the ball past the keeper for 1-0.Ware was next to have a chance as the defender brought Bloomer down for a free kick on the edge of the box but Ware got too much on it and lifted the ball over the bar.The ton continued to pile on the pressure with the only threat from Basset coming from the pacy striker April Polden.Allen then had a goal ruled out for offside after a superb move involving about 6 Bitton players. Bitton were not to be denied however and Bloomer got hers and Bitton 2nd on 25mins when she again found space and for a change was in a clinical mood so fire home. Wotton bassett then had a good 10 min spell where they began to get a hold of the ball and mount a few attacks. Firstly Polden did well down the right and forced a good save from Gallagher and they then had a couple of coners which Bitton struggled to clear. Bassett gave themselves a bit of hope on 30 mins when after yet another corner Gallagher failed to deal with it and the Bassett defender Jeffries was quickest to the losse ball to hammer home. For a short time the goal galvanised Bassett but Bitton continued with their impressive passing game and went close with long range efforts from Jones and Riley. Allen was looking lively and she wriggled free in the box a few times but could not quite get her shot away. Bitton increased their lead 5 minutes before the break when Jones did well to pick out J Morgan with a cut back and she made no mistake with her 5th goal in 8 games since joining. There was still time for one more goal in the first half as Bloomer completed her hat trick with another clinical finish to make it 4-1 at half time with bitton firmly in control
Bitton was again controlled the second half and though they played some more nice football they never quite reached the heights of the first half. There was chances at both ends but the Wotton Basset keeper had to be in fine form to deny Bloomer, Allen, Jones and Ware on a number of occasions. The impressive and ever consistent Caplin then decided to stride forward and try her luck from 25 yards but her shot drifted wide and then Allen showed some more good trickery in the box but her shot was straight at the keeper. Bitton finally got a 5th when after more good play by Allen she saw her cross sliced into her own net by a defender. Shortly after Bitton got a sixth when the ball was worked to Jones on the far post and sher drilled home through a crowded penalty area. Bitton continued to press looking for more goals but were a little wastefull and found the overworked Bassett keeper in fine form. There was time for one more goal as Jones pulled out the tommy toe punt to play Allen in on goal and the striker got her goal that her good display deserved and she curled the ball into the bottom corner to round off a nice 7-1 win for the Ton.
A superb performance from Bitton who played some great football on a tricky surface and scored some very good goals
Player of the match-Crystal Caplin-Solid,Consistent and a driver to play football from start to finish
Bassett star player-April polden-Caused a few problems with her leggy style of runing and worked hard
Bitton was again controlled the second half and though they played some more nice football they never quite reached the heights of the first half. There was chances at both ends but the Wotton Basset keeper had to be in fine form to deny Bloomer, Allen, Jones and Ware on a number of occasions. The impressive and ever consistent Caplin then decided to stride forward and try her luck from 25 yards but her shot drifted wide and then Allen showed some more good trickery in the box but her shot was straight at the keeper. Bitton finally got a 5th when after more good play by Allen she saw her cross sliced into her own net by a defender. Shortly after Bitton got a sixth when the ball was worked to Jones on the far post and sher drilled home through a crowded penalty area. Bitton continued to press looking for more goals but were a little wastefull and found the overworked Bassett keeper in fine form. There was time for one more goal as Jones pulled out the tommy toe punt to play Allen in on goal and the striker got her goal that her good display deserved and she curled the ball into the bottom corner to round off a nice 7-1 win for the Ton.
A superb performance from Bitton who played some great football on a tricky surface and scored some very good goals
Player of the match-Crystal Caplin-Solid,Consistent and a driver to play football from start to finish
Bassett star player-April polden-Caused a few problems with her leggy style of runing and worked hard
Cheltenham 1-1 Bitton(Bitton win 3-4 on penalties)
Bitton produced their most spirited performance of the season as they overcame SWWFL side Cheltenham Town on penalties to advance to the Quarter final of the GFA Cup.
After navigating the heavy traffic due to the Cheltenham Races Bitton arrived with only the bare 11 players with top scorer Meg Bloomer injured, Laura Tugwell away and Carly Bray working. Kylie Allen was forced to patch herself up to play and Donna Bojcuk was a late call up to prevent Bitton having to start with only 10. The Ton lined up with a back four of Riley, Doidge, S Morgan and Caplin a midfield of J Morgan, Ware, Jones & Allen with Coates & Bojcuk up top.
Cheltenham not only had 5 subs to choose from on a day when rolling subs were allowed but also had the luxury of what seemed like about 10 backroom staff including Goalkeeping coach, Physio, about 3 managers where as Bitton only had manager Paul and a couple of loyal supporters.
The early stages of the game did not look good for Bitton as Cheltenham came flying out the traps with Bitton looking very nervous and they should have taken the lead in only the 2nd minute when S Morgan and Doidge made their only mistake of the game when they collided leaving the home striker a free run on goal but she somehow dragged it wide with the goal at her mercy. Cheltenham continued to dominate the early stages and Bitton were finding it hard to get past experienced centre back Rhona Donaldson. Cheltneham had a couple of long range efforts as Bitton looked nervous but they gradually started to get a hold on the game and J morgan and Coates both had little runs to give confidence to the side. Just as it looked like Bitton were settling they went behind. A hopeful ball over the top had Gallagher rushing off her line but she somehow managed to completely miss the ball when trying to clear it leaving the grateful striker an open net. Rather than get their head down Bitton seemed to respond to going a goal down and really started to cause the opposition a few problems. Doidge and player of the match Sam Morgan were really starting to get to grips with the Cheltenham attack allowing Bitton to mount a few attacks and against the run of play Bitton drew level. Great work by J Morgan saw her in space on the right and she drifted inside before releasing a pile driver into the top corner for 1-1. This really gave the Bitton girls confidence and the Cheltenham keeper made a superb save to deny Bitton taking the lead as Allen hit a shot after great work from Coates down the right wing. A feature of the game was Cheltenham using the rolling subs often to freshen up the team and give tired players a rest while the Bitton girls knew they would be out there for the whole 90 minutes. Cheltenham had another superb chance to go ahead but again the striker shot wide when well placed. It really was a close game now and end to end stuff with Coates having a goal disallowed for offside and Cheltenham having a few corners which were well defended. Caplin was doing well to deal with the obvious threat of The pacy Cheltenham winger and the half time whistle blew with Bitton feeling confident.
Bitton almost got the perfect start to the second half as almost straight from kick off Coates wriggled free but her well struck shot bounced back out of the cross bar. A feature of the second half was the Cheltenham offside trap which saw the linesman raise his flag on numerous occasions to deny Coates, Allen and J Morgan. By now S Morgan and Doidge were on top of their games and were looking stronger by the minute allowing no space for the Cheltenham striker. Coates finally broke the offside trap and advanced one on one with the keeper but her tame shot was straight into the keepers arms. Ware and Jones were continuing to work hard against the 3 Cheltenham midfielders which was allowing J Morgan and Allen more space to feed the dangerous Coates and Bojcuk who worked her socks off all afternoon despite not seeing much of the ball. Cheltenham again tried to freshen it up with more subs but the couple of long range efforts they had were easily saved by Gallagher. Bitton nearly helped Cheltenham out as from a corner Jones nearly put into her own net when the ball bounced off her knee. Coates then hit the bar again but the flag was up anyway and Allen made ground into the box but could not find a cross. Next to try her luck was ware who hit a 30 yard free kick that the keeper easily gathered. Cheltenham tried a late push but with Caplin and Riley supporting the superb S Morgan and Doidge they could not get through and the ref blew for full tie and the dreaded penalty shootout.
Penalties-Cheltenham won the toss and elected to go first
Cheltenham-Scored 1-0
Bitton-Scored-Jess Morgan confidently sent the keeper the wrong way 1-1
Cheltenham Scored- 2-1
Bitton-Scored-Kylie Allen scores with a side foot into the bottom right-2-2
Cheltenham-Miss-The ball is dragged wide after some wobbly legs from Gally in goal 2-2
Bitton-Scored-Leanne Ware leaves nothing to chance as she hits the top corner with a perfect pen 2-3
Cheltenham-Scored 3-3
Bitton-Scored-Sarah Doidge makes no mistake as she drills low into the corner 3-4
Cheltenham-SAVED-Gally dives to her right but saves the shot down the middle with her trailing legs and Bitton win. 3-4
A superb gritty performance from the Bitton girls who showed superb team spirit. They rode their luck at times, especially early on but never gave up. Bitton now advance into the quarter finals where they will play Bristol & west.
Player of the match-Sam Morgan-Superb display from the centre back who tackled everything
Cheltenham star player-Rhona Donaldson- Calm on the ball and won everything in the air
After navigating the heavy traffic due to the Cheltenham Races Bitton arrived with only the bare 11 players with top scorer Meg Bloomer injured, Laura Tugwell away and Carly Bray working. Kylie Allen was forced to patch herself up to play and Donna Bojcuk was a late call up to prevent Bitton having to start with only 10. The Ton lined up with a back four of Riley, Doidge, S Morgan and Caplin a midfield of J Morgan, Ware, Jones & Allen with Coates & Bojcuk up top.
Cheltenham not only had 5 subs to choose from on a day when rolling subs were allowed but also had the luxury of what seemed like about 10 backroom staff including Goalkeeping coach, Physio, about 3 managers where as Bitton only had manager Paul and a couple of loyal supporters.
The early stages of the game did not look good for Bitton as Cheltenham came flying out the traps with Bitton looking very nervous and they should have taken the lead in only the 2nd minute when S Morgan and Doidge made their only mistake of the game when they collided leaving the home striker a free run on goal but she somehow dragged it wide with the goal at her mercy. Cheltenham continued to dominate the early stages and Bitton were finding it hard to get past experienced centre back Rhona Donaldson. Cheltneham had a couple of long range efforts as Bitton looked nervous but they gradually started to get a hold on the game and J morgan and Coates both had little runs to give confidence to the side. Just as it looked like Bitton were settling they went behind. A hopeful ball over the top had Gallagher rushing off her line but she somehow managed to completely miss the ball when trying to clear it leaving the grateful striker an open net. Rather than get their head down Bitton seemed to respond to going a goal down and really started to cause the opposition a few problems. Doidge and player of the match Sam Morgan were really starting to get to grips with the Cheltenham attack allowing Bitton to mount a few attacks and against the run of play Bitton drew level. Great work by J Morgan saw her in space on the right and she drifted inside before releasing a pile driver into the top corner for 1-1. This really gave the Bitton girls confidence and the Cheltenham keeper made a superb save to deny Bitton taking the lead as Allen hit a shot after great work from Coates down the right wing. A feature of the game was Cheltenham using the rolling subs often to freshen up the team and give tired players a rest while the Bitton girls knew they would be out there for the whole 90 minutes. Cheltenham had another superb chance to go ahead but again the striker shot wide when well placed. It really was a close game now and end to end stuff with Coates having a goal disallowed for offside and Cheltenham having a few corners which were well defended. Caplin was doing well to deal with the obvious threat of The pacy Cheltenham winger and the half time whistle blew with Bitton feeling confident.
Bitton almost got the perfect start to the second half as almost straight from kick off Coates wriggled free but her well struck shot bounced back out of the cross bar. A feature of the second half was the Cheltenham offside trap which saw the linesman raise his flag on numerous occasions to deny Coates, Allen and J Morgan. By now S Morgan and Doidge were on top of their games and were looking stronger by the minute allowing no space for the Cheltenham striker. Coates finally broke the offside trap and advanced one on one with the keeper but her tame shot was straight into the keepers arms. Ware and Jones were continuing to work hard against the 3 Cheltenham midfielders which was allowing J Morgan and Allen more space to feed the dangerous Coates and Bojcuk who worked her socks off all afternoon despite not seeing much of the ball. Cheltenham again tried to freshen it up with more subs but the couple of long range efforts they had were easily saved by Gallagher. Bitton nearly helped Cheltenham out as from a corner Jones nearly put into her own net when the ball bounced off her knee. Coates then hit the bar again but the flag was up anyway and Allen made ground into the box but could not find a cross. Next to try her luck was ware who hit a 30 yard free kick that the keeper easily gathered. Cheltenham tried a late push but with Caplin and Riley supporting the superb S Morgan and Doidge they could not get through and the ref blew for full tie and the dreaded penalty shootout.
Penalties-Cheltenham won the toss and elected to go first
Cheltenham-Scored 1-0
Bitton-Scored-Jess Morgan confidently sent the keeper the wrong way 1-1
Cheltenham Scored- 2-1
Bitton-Scored-Kylie Allen scores with a side foot into the bottom right-2-2
Cheltenham-Miss-The ball is dragged wide after some wobbly legs from Gally in goal 2-2
Bitton-Scored-Leanne Ware leaves nothing to chance as she hits the top corner with a perfect pen 2-3
Cheltenham-Scored 3-3
Bitton-Scored-Sarah Doidge makes no mistake as she drills low into the corner 3-4
Cheltenham-SAVED-Gally dives to her right but saves the shot down the middle with her trailing legs and Bitton win. 3-4
A superb gritty performance from the Bitton girls who showed superb team spirit. They rode their luck at times, especially early on but never gave up. Bitton now advance into the quarter finals where they will play Bristol & west.
Player of the match-Sam Morgan-Superb display from the centre back who tackled everything
Cheltenham star player-Rhona Donaldson- Calm on the ball and won everything in the air
Gloucester city 2-3 Bitton
Bitton remain unbeaten in the league this season but were pushed all the way by this young gloucester city res side who never gave up and were always in the game.
Bitton dominated the game but top scorer Bloomer had an off day and missed several chances and was also caught offside on numerous occasions. After Glos had took a surprise lead Bitton hit back when Jones volleyed home a cross. She doubled her own and Bittons tally from the most unlikeliest of areas as she then headed home a Bray cross. Sub Kylie Allen came on and netted her first goal for the club and almost got another 5 minutes later as she hit the post. Glos pulled a goal back late on with a header to set up a nervy finish but Bitton took the points home to move them up to third place.
Player of the match-Becky jones-2 goals including a rare header
Bitton dominated the game but top scorer Bloomer had an off day and missed several chances and was also caught offside on numerous occasions. After Glos had took a surprise lead Bitton hit back when Jones volleyed home a cross. She doubled her own and Bittons tally from the most unlikeliest of areas as she then headed home a Bray cross. Sub Kylie Allen came on and netted her first goal for the club and almost got another 5 minutes later as she hit the post. Glos pulled a goal back late on with a header to set up a nervy finish but Bitton took the points home to move them up to third place.
Player of the match-Becky jones-2 goals including a rare header
Downend 4-2 Bitton
In this Second Round Qualifying match, South West League Premier Division side Downend Flyers took on Bitton LFC.
It was however the underdogs, Bitton who started brightly when they sealed two goals in the first ten minutes. The first came from Jessica Morgan who, after a long ball, was able to dink it over the keeper who came rushing out. The second, which came minutes after, was a similar goal when a through ball split the defence allowing Amber Coates to put it over Danni Pearson and into the net with some help from the woodwork. Bitton were well on top and Chloe Gallagher was a virtual bystander. Bitton went close again with a few Carly Bray corners but could not force home a third goal
The two early goals gave Bitton confidence and Downend Flyers became increasingly frustrated, until midway through the first half when the ball was played into Laura Baker who shot low and hard into the bottom corner leaving Bitton keeper, Chloe Gallagher no chance.
Downend levelled before the interval with another goal from Laura Baker who slotted in a Rachael Stowell cross.
The second half saw Downend lift their spirits and show their superiority having most of the possession and creating more of the chances. Baker sealed her third goal after breaking down the wing. She looked to have gone too far towards the by line after rounding the Bitton keeper, but somehow managed to find the net from an incredible angle.
Downend’s fourth goal came from ex international Rachel Stowell when she headed in a cross that the keeper had tipped off the crossbar. An entertaining match with Downend Flyers proceeding to the next round of the cup
Player of the match-Amber Coates
Downend star player-Laura Baker
It was however the underdogs, Bitton who started brightly when they sealed two goals in the first ten minutes. The first came from Jessica Morgan who, after a long ball, was able to dink it over the keeper who came rushing out. The second, which came minutes after, was a similar goal when a through ball split the defence allowing Amber Coates to put it over Danni Pearson and into the net with some help from the woodwork. Bitton were well on top and Chloe Gallagher was a virtual bystander. Bitton went close again with a few Carly Bray corners but could not force home a third goal
The two early goals gave Bitton confidence and Downend Flyers became increasingly frustrated, until midway through the first half when the ball was played into Laura Baker who shot low and hard into the bottom corner leaving Bitton keeper, Chloe Gallagher no chance.
Downend levelled before the interval with another goal from Laura Baker who slotted in a Rachael Stowell cross.
The second half saw Downend lift their spirits and show their superiority having most of the possession and creating more of the chances. Baker sealed her third goal after breaking down the wing. She looked to have gone too far towards the by line after rounding the Bitton keeper, but somehow managed to find the net from an incredible angle.
Downend’s fourth goal came from ex international Rachel Stowell when she headed in a cross that the keeper had tipped off the crossbar. An entertaining match with Downend Flyers proceeding to the next round of the cup
Player of the match-Amber Coates
Downend star player-Laura Baker
Quedgley 1-4 Bitton
Bitton were on the road again travelling to newly promoted Quedgley. Who won division 2 last year and also won the league cup final. Without really being at their best Bitton were the stronger team for most parts although it was not untill late on that they finally wrapped up the points.
Bitton looked nevry early on especially at the back and there was a few anxious moments as Quedgley got in but either fired wide or Gallagher saved. At the other end Bitton were looking dangerous but were being stopped by the excellent Donna Turley in the Quedgley goal who time and again rushed off her line to deny both Bloomer & Coates when they lookied to be in on goal. Bitton came close numerous times and on two occasions hit the cross bar but just could not find a way past the keeper. Quedgley defended well and were looking dangerous on the break and hit the bar themselves just before half time. The half finished 0-0 after a mainly midefield battle and both teams looking to really get going.Both team would be feeling they could get something out of the game in the second period.
Bitton made a change at half time with new signing Donna Bojcuk replacing Amber Coates and it seemed to have an immediate impact as Bitton scored twice within 3 minutes of the re start. Firstly Bloomer got free wide on the right and she cut in and hit a left foot strike that went over the head of Turley in the Quedgley goal from 30 yards. Then straight from the ko Ware and Jones won the ball back to set Bloomer free who rounded the keeper and rolled the ball across the line for Bojcuk to score with her first touch. With the two goal cushion Bitton relaxed a bit and started to pass the ball a bit better. Leanne Turner started to find space for Quedgley and began to run at the Bitton defence causing a few problems.Chloe Riley was having an outstanding game at the back and played some lovely channel balls to set Bloomer racing away. With Bray getting back into things after missing the start of the season Bitton started to look like the team who were flying in pre season but once again missed chances meant Quedgley were never out of the game. As is usually the case the other side had a good spell of pressure and Bitton had to deal with a number of corners and Ware, S Morgan & Chaplin all made good last ditch blocks. J Morgan had a great chance to wrap things up but she dragged it just wide and then Quedgley responded by pulling one back moments later. Bitton again failed to clear any danger and it was Amanda Cosgrove who found herself with time at the far post to fire home and give Quedgley some hope. Bitton then had a 10 minute spell where they just could not get out of their half as Quedgley pinned them back and forced them to defend deep. Just as it looked like they may draw level a ball over the top saw Bloomer race away and this time she composed herself well and picked her spot to give Bitton a 3-1 lead. Minutes later it was 4 as Bojcuk headed home after some good work in midfield by Bitton. Grace Baker had a fine game on the left as she completed 90 minutes for Bitton for the first time in over 2 years.
Bitton are still no firing on all cylinders but this was another 3 points as they continue to gel as a team.
Player of the match-Chloe Riley- Solid perfomance at the back and set up several attacks with her passing.
Quedgley star player-Donne Turley- Some fine saves and kept Bitton at bay
Bitton looked nevry early on especially at the back and there was a few anxious moments as Quedgley got in but either fired wide or Gallagher saved. At the other end Bitton were looking dangerous but were being stopped by the excellent Donna Turley in the Quedgley goal who time and again rushed off her line to deny both Bloomer & Coates when they lookied to be in on goal. Bitton came close numerous times and on two occasions hit the cross bar but just could not find a way past the keeper. Quedgley defended well and were looking dangerous on the break and hit the bar themselves just before half time. The half finished 0-0 after a mainly midefield battle and both teams looking to really get going.Both team would be feeling they could get something out of the game in the second period.
Bitton made a change at half time with new signing Donna Bojcuk replacing Amber Coates and it seemed to have an immediate impact as Bitton scored twice within 3 minutes of the re start. Firstly Bloomer got free wide on the right and she cut in and hit a left foot strike that went over the head of Turley in the Quedgley goal from 30 yards. Then straight from the ko Ware and Jones won the ball back to set Bloomer free who rounded the keeper and rolled the ball across the line for Bojcuk to score with her first touch. With the two goal cushion Bitton relaxed a bit and started to pass the ball a bit better. Leanne Turner started to find space for Quedgley and began to run at the Bitton defence causing a few problems.Chloe Riley was having an outstanding game at the back and played some lovely channel balls to set Bloomer racing away. With Bray getting back into things after missing the start of the season Bitton started to look like the team who were flying in pre season but once again missed chances meant Quedgley were never out of the game. As is usually the case the other side had a good spell of pressure and Bitton had to deal with a number of corners and Ware, S Morgan & Chaplin all made good last ditch blocks. J Morgan had a great chance to wrap things up but she dragged it just wide and then Quedgley responded by pulling one back moments later. Bitton again failed to clear any danger and it was Amanda Cosgrove who found herself with time at the far post to fire home and give Quedgley some hope. Bitton then had a 10 minute spell where they just could not get out of their half as Quedgley pinned them back and forced them to defend deep. Just as it looked like they may draw level a ball over the top saw Bloomer race away and this time she composed herself well and picked her spot to give Bitton a 3-1 lead. Minutes later it was 4 as Bojcuk headed home after some good work in midfield by Bitton. Grace Baker had a fine game on the left as she completed 90 minutes for Bitton for the first time in over 2 years.
Bitton are still no firing on all cylinders but this was another 3 points as they continue to gel as a team.
Player of the match-Chloe Riley- Solid perfomance at the back and set up several attacks with her passing.
Quedgley star player-Donne Turley- Some fine saves and kept Bitton at bay
Pen Mill 3-5 Bitton
Bitton advanced to the next round despite a very poor performance against Somerset County side Pen Mill.
On a windy day and playing on a bobbly small pitch it was a game where neither team really settled or managed to pass the ball with any purpose. The game was very scrappy and many supporters were heard to comment on the lack of quality on the pitch.
There was no sign of the poor performance from Bitton in the early stages as once again they took an early lead and once again it was Bloomer who scored. Jones found space in the box but instead of shooting she passed to Bloomer who fired home at the seccond attempt after the small Pen Mill keeper stopped her first effort. Only 10 minutes later Bitton doubled the lead as Bloomer picked up the ball 20 yards out and fired the ball over the keeper. Instead of pushing on and looking to kill the game off Bitton took their foot of the pedal and allowed Pen Mill to get back into the game. The Somerset side who perhaps did not have the ability of Bitton showd far more hunger,workrate and team, spirit and none more so than their ageing left back Anne Read who on numerous occasions made last ditch blocks and gave 100% right to the very end. Despite playing poorly Bitton were still carving out plenty of chances with Bloomer, Coates and Ware all going close. Pen Mill went close on a few occasions as they looked to catch Bitton on the break with their speedy strikers. They were denied a goal by an offside flag and also hit the post before they finally managed to force home a goal as a striker found space in the area to head home. Bitton extended the 2 goal lead almost straight away as Coates raced clear and fired home for her first goal since she returned to the club.
The second half started at a frantic pace with Gallagher and Morgan getting in each others way allowing Pen Mill to pull one back and J Morgan looping a high shot into the net for a 4-2. The rest of the half was some of the poorest football you could wish to see with both teams guilty of giving it away on numerous occasions. Despite missing a few chances Bitton always looked like they were struggling at the back and a Pen mill goal looked like it was coming. A superb free kick hit the post and Gallagher had to be alert a few times to make saves as Pen Mill probed looking for a way back. They were given hope with 15 minutes remaining when a corner was glanced on and volleyed home sparking wild celebrations as Pen Mill sensed a way back. The game was eventually settled as Coates was brought down in the box and Bloomer converted for her hat trick and Bittons 5th.
Poor game and Bitton will have to play much better to avoid a hammering when they face Downend Flyers in the next round. Good luck to Pen Mill for the season and thanks for the hospitality(Chicken Burger was a beauty)
Ps- Sorry for the short report but im trying my hardest to forget this match it was that bad.
Player of the match-Im struggling here
Pen Mill star player-Anne Read(Superb all game)
On a windy day and playing on a bobbly small pitch it was a game where neither team really settled or managed to pass the ball with any purpose. The game was very scrappy and many supporters were heard to comment on the lack of quality on the pitch.
There was no sign of the poor performance from Bitton in the early stages as once again they took an early lead and once again it was Bloomer who scored. Jones found space in the box but instead of shooting she passed to Bloomer who fired home at the seccond attempt after the small Pen Mill keeper stopped her first effort. Only 10 minutes later Bitton doubled the lead as Bloomer picked up the ball 20 yards out and fired the ball over the keeper. Instead of pushing on and looking to kill the game off Bitton took their foot of the pedal and allowed Pen Mill to get back into the game. The Somerset side who perhaps did not have the ability of Bitton showd far more hunger,workrate and team, spirit and none more so than their ageing left back Anne Read who on numerous occasions made last ditch blocks and gave 100% right to the very end. Despite playing poorly Bitton were still carving out plenty of chances with Bloomer, Coates and Ware all going close. Pen Mill went close on a few occasions as they looked to catch Bitton on the break with their speedy strikers. They were denied a goal by an offside flag and also hit the post before they finally managed to force home a goal as a striker found space in the area to head home. Bitton extended the 2 goal lead almost straight away as Coates raced clear and fired home for her first goal since she returned to the club.
The second half started at a frantic pace with Gallagher and Morgan getting in each others way allowing Pen Mill to pull one back and J Morgan looping a high shot into the net for a 4-2. The rest of the half was some of the poorest football you could wish to see with both teams guilty of giving it away on numerous occasions. Despite missing a few chances Bitton always looked like they were struggling at the back and a Pen mill goal looked like it was coming. A superb free kick hit the post and Gallagher had to be alert a few times to make saves as Pen Mill probed looking for a way back. They were given hope with 15 minutes remaining when a corner was glanced on and volleyed home sparking wild celebrations as Pen Mill sensed a way back. The game was eventually settled as Coates was brought down in the box and Bloomer converted for her hat trick and Bittons 5th.
Poor game and Bitton will have to play much better to avoid a hammering when they face Downend Flyers in the next round. Good luck to Pen Mill for the season and thanks for the hospitality(Chicken Burger was a beauty)
Ps- Sorry for the short report but im trying my hardest to forget this match it was that bad.
Player of the match-Im struggling here
Pen Mill star player-Anne Read(Superb all game)
Wotton Bassett 2-3 Bitton
Bitton travelled to newly promoted Wotton Bassett looking for their first 3 points of the season. Bitton dominated from start to finish and those that were at the game would find it hard to explain how Bitton only scored 3 when having so much of the ball and creating so many chances. J Morgan came in to replace Riley, Tuggwell replaced Knight & Coates started up top with bloomer in an attacking lineup.
If Bitton were looking for a good start they definitely got it as straight from kick off Bloomer raced away and her shot was spilt by the keeper and saw the ball trickle over the line. 1-0 15 seconds played. After such an early goal a few were expecting a goal rush and it probably should of happened but a combination of rushed finishing good goalkeeping meant the game was never out of reach of Bassett team who kept going right to the final whistle. Next to threaten was Coates who beat her marker on the right and saw her left foot shot strike the post. With S Morgan, Ware & Jones dominating the midfield chance after chance came for the front two and ware in particular had a fine game where she seemed to be everywhere making some great tackles. Bloomer & j Morgan both missed good chances and Jones had a long range effort blocked before Bloomer got her 2nd after chasing down a ball and going round the keeper. With a bit of breathing space Bitton were expected to go on and score more and Coates, Bloomer, Tugwell and Jones all had chances to extend the lead.Just as half time approached Bitton switched off at the back and allowed the dangerous Wotton basset striker Polden to get away,her weak shot was trickling wide but Gallagher decided to dive and stop the ball but only resulted in knocking the ball straight out to Tidy who had the easiest of finishes.
2-1 at half time when it should have been 5 or 6.Bitton had an almost identical start to the second half as they did the first as Bloomer hit a good shot which the keeper parried and J Morgan was on hand to tap home for a debut goal. Rather than push on Bitton lapsed in concentration again and allowed Polden to pull one back to make it 3-2. The rest of the half was played in around the Bassett area with Bitton taking it in turns to have shots at the keeper. Coates and Bloomer both had plenty of efforts with ware Jones and Tugwell also going close. In fairness the keeper made some good saves but they really should of extended the lead by a couple. Bloomer then hit the post as she looked for her ha trick and also head a great chaplin cross just wide. On a day when Cheltenham Civil hit 16 Bitton really should have been at least hitting double figures but after a few more missed chances the ref blew up for 3-2.
Should have been more but it was a first 3 points and the Ton are still unbeaten this season.
Player of the Match-Leanne ware(Superb performance in the engine room and tackled everything including the corner flag)
Wotton Bassett Star Player- April Polden- A danger all game with strong running despite lack of service.
If Bitton were looking for a good start they definitely got it as straight from kick off Bloomer raced away and her shot was spilt by the keeper and saw the ball trickle over the line. 1-0 15 seconds played. After such an early goal a few were expecting a goal rush and it probably should of happened but a combination of rushed finishing good goalkeeping meant the game was never out of reach of Bassett team who kept going right to the final whistle. Next to threaten was Coates who beat her marker on the right and saw her left foot shot strike the post. With S Morgan, Ware & Jones dominating the midfield chance after chance came for the front two and ware in particular had a fine game where she seemed to be everywhere making some great tackles. Bloomer & j Morgan both missed good chances and Jones had a long range effort blocked before Bloomer got her 2nd after chasing down a ball and going round the keeper. With a bit of breathing space Bitton were expected to go on and score more and Coates, Bloomer, Tugwell and Jones all had chances to extend the lead.Just as half time approached Bitton switched off at the back and allowed the dangerous Wotton basset striker Polden to get away,her weak shot was trickling wide but Gallagher decided to dive and stop the ball but only resulted in knocking the ball straight out to Tidy who had the easiest of finishes.
2-1 at half time when it should have been 5 or 6.Bitton had an almost identical start to the second half as they did the first as Bloomer hit a good shot which the keeper parried and J Morgan was on hand to tap home for a debut goal. Rather than push on Bitton lapsed in concentration again and allowed Polden to pull one back to make it 3-2. The rest of the half was played in around the Bassett area with Bitton taking it in turns to have shots at the keeper. Coates and Bloomer both had plenty of efforts with ware Jones and Tugwell also going close. In fairness the keeper made some good saves but they really should of extended the lead by a couple. Bloomer then hit the post as she looked for her ha trick and also head a great chaplin cross just wide. On a day when Cheltenham Civil hit 16 Bitton really should have been at least hitting double figures but after a few more missed chances the ref blew up for 3-2.
Should have been more but it was a first 3 points and the Ton are still unbeaten this season.
Player of the Match-Leanne ware(Superb performance in the engine room and tackled everything including the corner flag)
Wotton Bassett Star Player- April Polden- A danger all game with strong running despite lack of service.
Bitton 2-2 Cheltenham Civil service
Well after a great pre season Bitton entered the first game of the season with a seriously depleted squad for the match v Cheltenham Civil service. Missing up to 6 players for various different reasons they ended up starting with the bare 11 and no subs which would prove to be a crucial factor later in the game.
Bitton came firing out the traps and were well on top when Marsh hit the bar after only 7 minutes with the keeper stranded. Only 2 minutes late Bloomer raced clear to be brought down in the area for a blatant penalty but the ref waved played on . The opening goal finally came on 10 minutes as Bloomer broke free on the left hand side before cutting in and striking the ball across the keeper in off the post with Civil keeper Jordan Bonner well beaten. Bitton were well on top but knew Civil would pose a threat with their pacy forwards on the break. The game changed on 15 minutes when Marsh broke free on goal and looked to be pulled back as she turned to appeal to the ref her foot got stuck in the turf. After lengthy treatment she was forced to leave the field meaning Bitton would have to play 75 minutes with only 10 players. Bloomer tried a long range effort but Civil began to come back into the game with Wheeler and Churchley looking very lively and the obvious threat of Riley who always seems to score against Bitton. The civil keeper Bonner was starting to show some good form and twice denied Bloomer. Bitton then struck the bar again as Jones tried an effort from 40 yards that bounced back off the woodwork. Civil started to press hard as half time approached and turned the game with 2 goals within 3 minutes. Firstly Churchley nodded in a superb far post header after good work down the right and cross from Brisland and then almost immediately Lodge broke clear and drilled the ball past Gallagher for a 2-1 Civil lead at half time.
On a boiling hot day and with only 10 players it looked like a tough ask for Bitton to get anything from the game. Civil could have wrapped things up as they missed two very good chances at the start of the 2nd half but Bitton continued to work. Bonner again denied Bloomer with a fine save as they continued their personal battle. Bonner then clearly handled the ball outside her box when rushing off her line but again the ref failed to spot it. Despite being down to 10 Bitton continued to press forward and the impressive Bonner once again made a fine save this time from Jones.Wheeler of Civil continued to cause problems and she did well down the left to create a few chances which were missed. The game then became very stretched with both sets of players looking tired but Civil were looking most likely to extend their lead. Just as Bitton were looking beat a good ball from Jones was played through to Bloomer who this time managed to beat Bonner & make it 2-2. There was still time for 1 more shot as Jones hit a chance over before the ref blew for full time.
A good point in the end as we played for so long with 10 but when hitting the bar twice and having a blatant penalty turned down the team must feel it could have been all 3.
Player of the match-Meg Bloomer-Lone striker for most of the game and hit 2 goals.
Cheltenham Civil Star player- Jordan Bonner-String of fine saves kept Bitton & bloomer in particular at bay.
Bitton came firing out the traps and were well on top when Marsh hit the bar after only 7 minutes with the keeper stranded. Only 2 minutes late Bloomer raced clear to be brought down in the area for a blatant penalty but the ref waved played on . The opening goal finally came on 10 minutes as Bloomer broke free on the left hand side before cutting in and striking the ball across the keeper in off the post with Civil keeper Jordan Bonner well beaten. Bitton were well on top but knew Civil would pose a threat with their pacy forwards on the break. The game changed on 15 minutes when Marsh broke free on goal and looked to be pulled back as she turned to appeal to the ref her foot got stuck in the turf. After lengthy treatment she was forced to leave the field meaning Bitton would have to play 75 minutes with only 10 players. Bloomer tried a long range effort but Civil began to come back into the game with Wheeler and Churchley looking very lively and the obvious threat of Riley who always seems to score against Bitton. The civil keeper Bonner was starting to show some good form and twice denied Bloomer. Bitton then struck the bar again as Jones tried an effort from 40 yards that bounced back off the woodwork. Civil started to press hard as half time approached and turned the game with 2 goals within 3 minutes. Firstly Churchley nodded in a superb far post header after good work down the right and cross from Brisland and then almost immediately Lodge broke clear and drilled the ball past Gallagher for a 2-1 Civil lead at half time.
On a boiling hot day and with only 10 players it looked like a tough ask for Bitton to get anything from the game. Civil could have wrapped things up as they missed two very good chances at the start of the 2nd half but Bitton continued to work. Bonner again denied Bloomer with a fine save as they continued their personal battle. Bonner then clearly handled the ball outside her box when rushing off her line but again the ref failed to spot it. Despite being down to 10 Bitton continued to press forward and the impressive Bonner once again made a fine save this time from Jones.Wheeler of Civil continued to cause problems and she did well down the left to create a few chances which were missed. The game then became very stretched with both sets of players looking tired but Civil were looking most likely to extend their lead. Just as Bitton were looking beat a good ball from Jones was played through to Bloomer who this time managed to beat Bonner & make it 2-2. There was still time for 1 more shot as Jones hit a chance over before the ref blew for full time.
A good point in the end as we played for so long with 10 but when hitting the bar twice and having a blatant penalty turned down the team must feel it could have been all 3.
Player of the match-Meg Bloomer-Lone striker for most of the game and hit 2 goals.
Cheltenham Civil Star player- Jordan Bonner-String of fine saves kept Bitton & bloomer in particular at bay.
Season 2011/12
Bitton 2-1 St Nicks
Bloomer,Hulbert
Green Army Defeated
Bitton upset St Nicks promotion party by winning 2-1 on a wet Evening at the Rec in a game that was a credit to the league with two teams showing 100% commitment to the cause. With Terri Marsh still suspended Nat Hulbert once again started up front with Sarah Wilmer Right Mid.
Bitton could not have got off to a worse start as within the opening minute Becky Rexworthy of St Nicks crossed from the right and despite Gallagher saving her initial shot the ball bounced back to Ruby Bagge who poked the ball home. St nicks continued to start well and a feature of the entire game was the constant long range efforts but in truth Gallagher in the Bitton goal showed superb handling in difficult conditions all night and dealt with most of them fairly comfortably. St Nicks then had a penalty decision waved away before Bitton drew level. Bloomer did well to wriggle free of her marker out wide before sending the ball into the box.Bush inthe St nicks goal misjudged it however and let the ball slip straight through her arms and it dropped into the net. St nicks had a chance to get back into the game almost immdeiately after Price went through the back of Rexworthy in the box and the ref this time had no choice but to award a penalty. Up stepped former Bitton girls player Sophie Sweet who was excellent all night but she dragged her effort wide. In truth Gallagher guessed the right way and even if the ball was inside the post the Bitton stopper may well have saved it anyway. St nicks continued to have most of the possesion without getting in behind the Bitton defence and the long range efforts were causing Bitton no problems. Bitton started to come back into the game with some more patient football and they began to knock the ball about with some nice passing football on a wet greasy pitch. They shook St nicks when they took the lead with an excellent goal. Bloomer received a throw and layed it on to Hosynzak who from the byline dug out a superb cross into the box which was nodded home by Hulbert for 2-1. The rest of the half was fairly even but bitton could have wrapped things up right at the end of the half as a Bray free kick was helped on by Hulbert and found the feet of Bloomer only 10 yards out but she dragged her shot wide.
Bitton knew that st nicks would come out and have a real go second half so the tactics would be to play deep and try and get bodies behind the ball and hit St nicks on the counter attack. Their task was made even more difficult by a baffling decision on 50 minutes. As Bray cleared the ball St Nicks player Bagge came flying in with what can only be described as a closeline (The sort you see in the wrestling ring usually) that caught Bray round the neck in a dangerous collision which sent her to the floor. Bray obviously put out by the challenge reacted badly and hit out at Bagge whilst on the floor before Bagge retaliated by striking Bray back. After the handbags had calmed down the referee made the bizarre decision to send Bray off and not even speak to Bagge. The free kick was awarded to Bitton so he must have seen the challenge which was probably worth a booking on its own or at least a talking too but surely both players should have received equal punishment?? Any way all this meant Bitton would be playing the last 40 minutes with 10 players up the hill against the league leaders who needed to win to clinch the title.Tough ask for any team but Bitton always thrive on being the underdogs and from this moment on the Bitton girls showed a tremendous work rate and desire to get the job done. Time and again they flew into challenges and put their bodies on the line. They work hard and harassed the St nicks players never letting the settle on the ball. Obviously it was pretty much one way traffic in the second half with only a few breaks from Bloomer for the St Nicks defence to worry about. In fairness though despite the numerical advantage and most of the possession St Nicks rarely looked like scoring. Their best chance came when Rexworthy was played in but her stinging shot was superbly tipped onto the bar by Gallagher. Bitton had a few scary moments from corners but in general they defended well and worked incredibly hard. The midfield four of Hulbert, B Jones, L Jones & Wilmer covered so much ground as they refused to let st nicks have any space meaning they could never get any service to the front two who were being well marshalled by Price & Knight. Former Stoke Lane player Lucy sparks hardly had a kick all night and Rexworthy was closed down quickly anytime she looked like getting away. Bitton showed good composure as they slowed the game down to upset any momentum St Nicks were trying to get and the final 10 minutes fizzled out without too much trouble for the Bitton defence.
SALLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
An excellent team performance from the Ton who did the league double over a very good St Nicks side. The teams finish the season on level points but due to those four games getting called off earlier in the year the Ton have an inferior goal difference so will finish behind the Green army. Forest of Dean need to beat Boco on Sunday to clinch the title
Player of the Match-Nat Hulbert & Chloe Gallagher-Two differant reasons but both had great games
St nicks star player-Sophie Sweet-Despite missing the crucial penalty looked the biggest threat all night
Bitton upset St Nicks promotion party by winning 2-1 on a wet Evening at the Rec in a game that was a credit to the league with two teams showing 100% commitment to the cause. With Terri Marsh still suspended Nat Hulbert once again started up front with Sarah Wilmer Right Mid.
Bitton could not have got off to a worse start as within the opening minute Becky Rexworthy of St Nicks crossed from the right and despite Gallagher saving her initial shot the ball bounced back to Ruby Bagge who poked the ball home. St nicks continued to start well and a feature of the entire game was the constant long range efforts but in truth Gallagher in the Bitton goal showed superb handling in difficult conditions all night and dealt with most of them fairly comfortably. St Nicks then had a penalty decision waved away before Bitton drew level. Bloomer did well to wriggle free of her marker out wide before sending the ball into the box.Bush inthe St nicks goal misjudged it however and let the ball slip straight through her arms and it dropped into the net. St nicks had a chance to get back into the game almost immdeiately after Price went through the back of Rexworthy in the box and the ref this time had no choice but to award a penalty. Up stepped former Bitton girls player Sophie Sweet who was excellent all night but she dragged her effort wide. In truth Gallagher guessed the right way and even if the ball was inside the post the Bitton stopper may well have saved it anyway. St nicks continued to have most of the possesion without getting in behind the Bitton defence and the long range efforts were causing Bitton no problems. Bitton started to come back into the game with some more patient football and they began to knock the ball about with some nice passing football on a wet greasy pitch. They shook St nicks when they took the lead with an excellent goal. Bloomer received a throw and layed it on to Hosynzak who from the byline dug out a superb cross into the box which was nodded home by Hulbert for 2-1. The rest of the half was fairly even but bitton could have wrapped things up right at the end of the half as a Bray free kick was helped on by Hulbert and found the feet of Bloomer only 10 yards out but she dragged her shot wide.
Bitton knew that st nicks would come out and have a real go second half so the tactics would be to play deep and try and get bodies behind the ball and hit St nicks on the counter attack. Their task was made even more difficult by a baffling decision on 50 minutes. As Bray cleared the ball St Nicks player Bagge came flying in with what can only be described as a closeline (The sort you see in the wrestling ring usually) that caught Bray round the neck in a dangerous collision which sent her to the floor. Bray obviously put out by the challenge reacted badly and hit out at Bagge whilst on the floor before Bagge retaliated by striking Bray back. After the handbags had calmed down the referee made the bizarre decision to send Bray off and not even speak to Bagge. The free kick was awarded to Bitton so he must have seen the challenge which was probably worth a booking on its own or at least a talking too but surely both players should have received equal punishment?? Any way all this meant Bitton would be playing the last 40 minutes with 10 players up the hill against the league leaders who needed to win to clinch the title.Tough ask for any team but Bitton always thrive on being the underdogs and from this moment on the Bitton girls showed a tremendous work rate and desire to get the job done. Time and again they flew into challenges and put their bodies on the line. They work hard and harassed the St nicks players never letting the settle on the ball. Obviously it was pretty much one way traffic in the second half with only a few breaks from Bloomer for the St Nicks defence to worry about. In fairness though despite the numerical advantage and most of the possession St Nicks rarely looked like scoring. Their best chance came when Rexworthy was played in but her stinging shot was superbly tipped onto the bar by Gallagher. Bitton had a few scary moments from corners but in general they defended well and worked incredibly hard. The midfield four of Hulbert, B Jones, L Jones & Wilmer covered so much ground as they refused to let st nicks have any space meaning they could never get any service to the front two who were being well marshalled by Price & Knight. Former Stoke Lane player Lucy sparks hardly had a kick all night and Rexworthy was closed down quickly anytime she looked like getting away. Bitton showed good composure as they slowed the game down to upset any momentum St Nicks were trying to get and the final 10 minutes fizzled out without too much trouble for the Bitton defence.
SALLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
An excellent team performance from the Ton who did the league double over a very good St Nicks side. The teams finish the season on level points but due to those four games getting called off earlier in the year the Ton have an inferior goal difference so will finish behind the Green army. Forest of Dean need to beat Boco on Sunday to clinch the title
Player of the Match-Nat Hulbert & Chloe Gallagher-Two differant reasons but both had great games
St nicks star player-Sophie Sweet-Despite missing the crucial penalty looked the biggest threat all night
Bitton 4-1 AEK Boco
Bloomer(2) B Jones(2)
Bitton were missing top scorer Terri Marsh who was suspended so Hulbert partnered Bloomer up top and Wilmer came in on the right side of midfield.
Bloomer looked to be away as early as the 3rd minuted but a very strange offside flag went up calling the play back. Price then nearly followed up her goal on Thursday with another as she met a Bray corner with a bullet header but it went straight at the keeper who gathered it at the second attempt. The game was fairly even but it was Bitton who were cretaing all the chances and they finally broke the deadlock on 20 minutes when B Jones played a nice ball over the top for Bloomer to run onto and volley through the keepers legs. Hulbert was next to have a chance after a pass from L Jones but she shot wide. Boco began to force a bit of pressure with scammel and Burge trying hard to move things forward. A dangerous ball into the Bitton box was calmly nodded back to Gallagher by the excellent Doidge who was superb all game and never put a foot wrong. In an almost identical move to the first goal B Jones played a ball over to Bloomer but this time she saw her shot hit the post and rebound to safety. The last action of the first half came when Bray played a good ball down the line to Hozzy who crossed to Hulbert who bundled the ball home as she challenged with the keeper but the ref strangely awarded a foul to Boco.
Bittons claims for a penalty were waved away at the start of the second half as Hulbert was chopped down before Bloomer raced clear only to fire wide. Boco had been in the game first half but not really created any chances but the second half they opted for a shoot on site policy and ex Bitton player Michelle Wolf was first to try her luck but she sliced her shot horribly wide. The dangerous Burge then tried her luck but again shot wide.Bray then picked up a caution for pulling scannels shirt even tho the initial offence was by the Boco played who had pushed her in the back. Bitton increased the lead on theb hour when a fine L Jones pass put Bloomer in on goal and she waited for the keeper to advance before slotting home for 2-0. Bray then played in Bloomer again but this time she shot wide. Burge had an effort from distance before Boco pulled a goal back from the penalty spot. Price kicked Burge in the box and Dinham smashed home the penalty to give them hope. Bitton lost it for a few seconds and were lucky when Scannel had a goal chalked off for a foul on Price. Bitton introduced defender Chloe Riley for Hulbert and she went straight up top and caused problems straight away firstly she played a great pass into the path of Bloomer but she dragged her shot wide then she tried her luck from distance with the shot just going over. L Jones had a weak shot easilly saved by the keeper after a corner before Burge hit yet another shot wide at the other end.Bitton restored the 2 goal cushion when Wilmer hit a cross into the box which the keeper dropped right at the feet of B Jones who tapped home. Burge then made ground into the box but was shaddowed out by a combination of Price & Bray and Ferris hit the rebound wide. Riley was then denied a goal as she looked to be in when out of nowhere Harris appeared and made a great tackle. Bitton wrapped up the points in the final 5 minutes. Bray played a long ball into the path of Wilmer who challenged the keeper on the edge of the box with Riley knocking the ball back to B Jones who then in turn sent a lovely lob back over the keepers head from outside the area for her second and Bittons fourth.
A better performance from Bitton who played with a smile on their faces and they can look forward to next weeks final game of the season when they host champions elect St Nicholas.
Player of the match-Sarah Doidge-Excellent all game in both attack and defence (nothing to do witha bribe)
Boco star player-Jade Scammell-Kept trying to drive her team forward all game and looked a danger.
Bloomer looked to be away as early as the 3rd minuted but a very strange offside flag went up calling the play back. Price then nearly followed up her goal on Thursday with another as she met a Bray corner with a bullet header but it went straight at the keeper who gathered it at the second attempt. The game was fairly even but it was Bitton who were cretaing all the chances and they finally broke the deadlock on 20 minutes when B Jones played a nice ball over the top for Bloomer to run onto and volley through the keepers legs. Hulbert was next to have a chance after a pass from L Jones but she shot wide. Boco began to force a bit of pressure with scammel and Burge trying hard to move things forward. A dangerous ball into the Bitton box was calmly nodded back to Gallagher by the excellent Doidge who was superb all game and never put a foot wrong. In an almost identical move to the first goal B Jones played a ball over to Bloomer but this time she saw her shot hit the post and rebound to safety. The last action of the first half came when Bray played a good ball down the line to Hozzy who crossed to Hulbert who bundled the ball home as she challenged with the keeper but the ref strangely awarded a foul to Boco.
Bittons claims for a penalty were waved away at the start of the second half as Hulbert was chopped down before Bloomer raced clear only to fire wide. Boco had been in the game first half but not really created any chances but the second half they opted for a shoot on site policy and ex Bitton player Michelle Wolf was first to try her luck but she sliced her shot horribly wide. The dangerous Burge then tried her luck but again shot wide.Bray then picked up a caution for pulling scannels shirt even tho the initial offence was by the Boco played who had pushed her in the back. Bitton increased the lead on theb hour when a fine L Jones pass put Bloomer in on goal and she waited for the keeper to advance before slotting home for 2-0. Bray then played in Bloomer again but this time she shot wide. Burge had an effort from distance before Boco pulled a goal back from the penalty spot. Price kicked Burge in the box and Dinham smashed home the penalty to give them hope. Bitton lost it for a few seconds and were lucky when Scannel had a goal chalked off for a foul on Price. Bitton introduced defender Chloe Riley for Hulbert and she went straight up top and caused problems straight away firstly she played a great pass into the path of Bloomer but she dragged her shot wide then she tried her luck from distance with the shot just going over. L Jones had a weak shot easilly saved by the keeper after a corner before Burge hit yet another shot wide at the other end.Bitton restored the 2 goal cushion when Wilmer hit a cross into the box which the keeper dropped right at the feet of B Jones who tapped home. Burge then made ground into the box but was shaddowed out by a combination of Price & Bray and Ferris hit the rebound wide. Riley was then denied a goal as she looked to be in when out of nowhere Harris appeared and made a great tackle. Bitton wrapped up the points in the final 5 minutes. Bray played a long ball into the path of Wilmer who challenged the keeper on the edge of the box with Riley knocking the ball back to B Jones who then in turn sent a lovely lob back over the keepers head from outside the area for her second and Bittons fourth.
A better performance from Bitton who played with a smile on their faces and they can look forward to next weeks final game of the season when they host champions elect St Nicholas.
Player of the match-Sarah Doidge-Excellent all game in both attack and defence (nothing to do witha bribe)
Boco star player-Jade Scammell-Kept trying to drive her team forward all game and looked a danger.
Bitton 4-0 Bristol & West
B Jones(2)
Hulbert
Bray
Bitton got back to winning ways with a comfortable 4-0 win against an under strength Bristol & West.
Meg Bloomer was out on the beer so Nat Hulbert started up front with Chloe Riley slotting into right midfield.
Hulbert seemed to enjoy her new role and she could have possible had a hat trick in the fiorst 10 minutes. Firstly she headed over an inch perfect Bray cross before the keeeper smothered her angled shot. Not to be denied she got her goal in the 10th minute with a good team goal. Marsh popped the ball back to B Jones who spotted L Jones making agreat run in behind and played a ball over the top to set her away as the keeper shut her down she lobbed the ball over her head in the direction of the goal but just as it looked like it was drifting wide Hulbert came from nowhere to bundle the ball home while smashing into the post. Hulbert was in the mood for more and she met a Bray corner but somehow headed over from only 2 yards. Marsh was next to miss a decent chance as another Bray corner found her but she guided her shot over the bar.Bray then had a good shot well saved as Bitton looked to press home there constant pressure. A combination of poor finishing and some good defending meant the score was only 1-0 at half time.
Bitton were even more dominant in the second half as wave after wave of attacks came in on the B&W goal. Firstly Esther set up Joner who missed an open goal then B Jones had a well hit shot blocked on route to goal. ESther then saw her mis-hit cross clip the top of the bar before Bitton made it 2-0. The ball was handled by Becky Billing of B&W and the ref pointed to the spot. Bray made no mistake with her kcik as she smashed it home. marsh who was desperate for a goal was very unlucky on 60 mins as she beat the defenders for pace and nudged the ball past the keeper to see it trickle in but the ref strangely awarded a free kcik for a push despite the ball already crossing the line.Bitton did not have to wait long for a third however as a Bray corner was headed clear only to be met by B Jones on the edge of the box who sent a superb left foot volley back over the keeper into the top corner. marsh was then denied again as she hit a superb right fot strike which the keeper did well to tip onto the bar but B jones was following up top tap home for her second and Bittons fourth. marsh then did well to release Hulbert but she mis hit her shot and then Hulbert blazed over with N jones and Marsh waiting for a tap in. The last chance of the game fell to Bray who ran from deep to fins herself 1 on 1 but she passed her shot just wide of the far post.
Not the best performance but a nother win and a welcome clean sheet
Player of the Match-Becky Jones- Two well taken goals and linked pay up well
B&W star player-Alecto Shyne-Made several good saves to keep the score down
Meg Bloomer was out on the beer so Nat Hulbert started up front with Chloe Riley slotting into right midfield.
Hulbert seemed to enjoy her new role and she could have possible had a hat trick in the fiorst 10 minutes. Firstly she headed over an inch perfect Bray cross before the keeeper smothered her angled shot. Not to be denied she got her goal in the 10th minute with a good team goal. Marsh popped the ball back to B Jones who spotted L Jones making agreat run in behind and played a ball over the top to set her away as the keeper shut her down she lobbed the ball over her head in the direction of the goal but just as it looked like it was drifting wide Hulbert came from nowhere to bundle the ball home while smashing into the post. Hulbert was in the mood for more and she met a Bray corner but somehow headed over from only 2 yards. Marsh was next to miss a decent chance as another Bray corner found her but she guided her shot over the bar.Bray then had a good shot well saved as Bitton looked to press home there constant pressure. A combination of poor finishing and some good defending meant the score was only 1-0 at half time.
Bitton were even more dominant in the second half as wave after wave of attacks came in on the B&W goal. Firstly Esther set up Joner who missed an open goal then B Jones had a well hit shot blocked on route to goal. ESther then saw her mis-hit cross clip the top of the bar before Bitton made it 2-0. The ball was handled by Becky Billing of B&W and the ref pointed to the spot. Bray made no mistake with her kcik as she smashed it home. marsh who was desperate for a goal was very unlucky on 60 mins as she beat the defenders for pace and nudged the ball past the keeper to see it trickle in but the ref strangely awarded a free kcik for a push despite the ball already crossing the line.Bitton did not have to wait long for a third however as a Bray corner was headed clear only to be met by B Jones on the edge of the box who sent a superb left foot volley back over the keeper into the top corner. marsh was then denied again as she hit a superb right fot strike which the keeper did well to tip onto the bar but B jones was following up top tap home for her second and Bittons fourth. marsh then did well to release Hulbert but she mis hit her shot and then Hulbert blazed over with N jones and Marsh waiting for a tap in. The last chance of the game fell to Bray who ran from deep to fins herself 1 on 1 but she passed her shot just wide of the far post.
Not the best performance but a nother win and a welcome clean sheet
Player of the Match-Becky Jones- Two well taken goals and linked pay up well
B&W star player-Alecto Shyne-Made several good saves to keep the score down
FOD 2-1 Bitton
Bray
Bittons hope of winning the title were all but ended by FOD as they went down 2-1 despite doing more than enough to get something from the game.
With only 5 minutes on the clock B Jones played a ball into the path of Bloomer who raced clear but she fired her shot over the bar. A few minutes later and Bloomer continued to cause problems as she tried a volley from wide on the right which was pushed away for a corner by the excellent Fod keeper Natasha Roberts. From the resultant corner Hulbert was inches away from connecting with Brays delivery as Bitton swamped the Fod team with wave after wave of attacks. Fod despite having a fair amount of possesion never really threataned Gallagher in the Bitton goal. Wilmer then did well down the left to find B Jones who again found Bloomer in behind but her left foot shot flew over the bar. Fod then had some good play as the speedy Morse flew down the right wing and delivered an dangerous cross that Gallagher did well to punch away. Another corner from Bray almost brought a goal of the season contender as Wilmer met the delivery on the edge of the box with a first time volley that was screaming into the top corner before being headed off the line.Fod keeper Roberts then did well on a number of occasions as she swept up behind her defence as Bitton looked to get in behind.Fod forced a couple of their own corneres which they should have been strong from with their tall side but Bitton dealt with them quite comfortably. Half time came with the scores still blank. Possesion was fairly even but Bitton had nearly all the chances and would be looking to press home the advantage.
The second half started as the first with Bloomer racing away after being put in by Wilmer the keeper did well to save her shot. Fod then forced a corner which was met and cleared at the near post but played back out to the taker and as Hulbert rushed out to shut her down she was adjudged to have brought her down for a free kick. The free kick was played into the box and the tall defender Clutterbuck rose highest to glance her header into the corner for the opening goal. Almost immediately Fod began to slow the game down and time waste frustrating Bittopn as they could not play at the tempo they wanted.Bitton had a good chance to equalise after another corner when the ball dropepd to Marsh only 6 yards out but she blazed the ball over the bar. L Jones then had a chance but she was well pressured by Clutterbuck and Rutter and shot over. Fod then doubled their lead in controversial circumstances. Morse shut down Price as she tried to clear the ball and raised her arms in front of her. The ball struck her her hands clearly which were stretched out in front of her in an unnatural position and bounced right into her path but the referee waved play on allowing Morse to smartly finish as she rolled it past Gallagher. Bitton continued to push on and a Bray cross was just missed by L Jones as the ball bounced and went inches over the bar. Marsh then nicked the ball away as the defender shielded the ball to the keeper despite it looking like a push in the back from Marsh but her shot was crowded out. Fod then had a great chance to finish the game off as the ball dropped for Morse from a corner but she blazed the ball over. Bitton did pull a goal back with 10 minutes left when Bray smashed home a free kick with the keeper managing to get a hand on it but just could not deal with the power. Anotrher big moment in the game came staright after as Bloomer raced clear from the halfway line with Clutterbuck the only Fod player chasing her but struggling to keep up. She slid in from behind bringing Bloomer to the ground for a free kick but despite denying a clear goal scoring oppertunity and with no other Fod defender anywhere near Clutterbuck was strangely only shown a yellow card. Ironically enough as she should not have been on the pitch it was Clutterbuck who rose highest to head the following cross away with Marsh and Wilmer waiting behind her in space. Despite FOd players going down for treatment on 5 differant occasions and 3 subs being made the ref decided not to play any added on time and infact blew his whistle on 43 minutes.
Bitton will feel hard done by as they had the majority of chances and really should of got something out of the game but you have to give credit to Fod for knowing how to win a game. The were dogged in defence and took their chances to complete the league double over the Ton. Clutterbuck and Tandy were superb and the fact that L Jones had one of her quieter games shows what a good player Rutter is.
Bitton are now relying on both FOD and St Nicks to slip up as they enter the final 3 games of the season if they are to have any chance of finishing in the top two.
Bitton player of the match-Sarah Wilmer -Did superb playing out of position on the left
Fod star player-Amy Tandy- Worked hard and looked a threat from midfiled before moving into defence to use her pace as cover
With only 5 minutes on the clock B Jones played a ball into the path of Bloomer who raced clear but she fired her shot over the bar. A few minutes later and Bloomer continued to cause problems as she tried a volley from wide on the right which was pushed away for a corner by the excellent Fod keeper Natasha Roberts. From the resultant corner Hulbert was inches away from connecting with Brays delivery as Bitton swamped the Fod team with wave after wave of attacks. Fod despite having a fair amount of possesion never really threataned Gallagher in the Bitton goal. Wilmer then did well down the left to find B Jones who again found Bloomer in behind but her left foot shot flew over the bar. Fod then had some good play as the speedy Morse flew down the right wing and delivered an dangerous cross that Gallagher did well to punch away. Another corner from Bray almost brought a goal of the season contender as Wilmer met the delivery on the edge of the box with a first time volley that was screaming into the top corner before being headed off the line.Fod keeper Roberts then did well on a number of occasions as she swept up behind her defence as Bitton looked to get in behind.Fod forced a couple of their own corneres which they should have been strong from with their tall side but Bitton dealt with them quite comfortably. Half time came with the scores still blank. Possesion was fairly even but Bitton had nearly all the chances and would be looking to press home the advantage.
The second half started as the first with Bloomer racing away after being put in by Wilmer the keeper did well to save her shot. Fod then forced a corner which was met and cleared at the near post but played back out to the taker and as Hulbert rushed out to shut her down she was adjudged to have brought her down for a free kick. The free kick was played into the box and the tall defender Clutterbuck rose highest to glance her header into the corner for the opening goal. Almost immediately Fod began to slow the game down and time waste frustrating Bittopn as they could not play at the tempo they wanted.Bitton had a good chance to equalise after another corner when the ball dropepd to Marsh only 6 yards out but she blazed the ball over the bar. L Jones then had a chance but she was well pressured by Clutterbuck and Rutter and shot over. Fod then doubled their lead in controversial circumstances. Morse shut down Price as she tried to clear the ball and raised her arms in front of her. The ball struck her her hands clearly which were stretched out in front of her in an unnatural position and bounced right into her path but the referee waved play on allowing Morse to smartly finish as she rolled it past Gallagher. Bitton continued to push on and a Bray cross was just missed by L Jones as the ball bounced and went inches over the bar. Marsh then nicked the ball away as the defender shielded the ball to the keeper despite it looking like a push in the back from Marsh but her shot was crowded out. Fod then had a great chance to finish the game off as the ball dropped for Morse from a corner but she blazed the ball over. Bitton did pull a goal back with 10 minutes left when Bray smashed home a free kick with the keeper managing to get a hand on it but just could not deal with the power. Anotrher big moment in the game came staright after as Bloomer raced clear from the halfway line with Clutterbuck the only Fod player chasing her but struggling to keep up. She slid in from behind bringing Bloomer to the ground for a free kick but despite denying a clear goal scoring oppertunity and with no other Fod defender anywhere near Clutterbuck was strangely only shown a yellow card. Ironically enough as she should not have been on the pitch it was Clutterbuck who rose highest to head the following cross away with Marsh and Wilmer waiting behind her in space. Despite FOd players going down for treatment on 5 differant occasions and 3 subs being made the ref decided not to play any added on time and infact blew his whistle on 43 minutes.
Bitton will feel hard done by as they had the majority of chances and really should of got something out of the game but you have to give credit to Fod for knowing how to win a game. The were dogged in defence and took their chances to complete the league double over the Ton. Clutterbuck and Tandy were superb and the fact that L Jones had one of her quieter games shows what a good player Rutter is.
Bitton are now relying on both FOD and St Nicks to slip up as they enter the final 3 games of the season if they are to have any chance of finishing in the top two.
Bitton player of the match-Sarah Wilmer -Did superb playing out of position on the left
Fod star player-Amy Tandy- Worked hard and looked a threat from midfiled before moving into defence to use her pace as cover
Gloucester City 1-0 Bitton
Bearing in mind the differance in levels the two teams play at most people were expecting a comfortable win for Gloucester here with quite a few goals. But the Bitton girls had other ideas and gave the South west combination side a real scare before eventually going down to a 1-0 defeat with a winner scored in added time.
Bitton welcomed back Char Knight after she has been away for the last 3 games and she replaced Chloe Riley in defence and the only other change from last week was Esther Hosznyak coming in for Sarah Wilmer.
Bitton started the game looking pretty nervous and their were a few anxious moments as players failed to clear there lines but Bitton gradually settled into the game as a real midfield battle started to take place. Gloucesters outstanding player was defeinately their experianced captian Yvette Kemp and Becky & Leanne Jones did well all afternoon to keep her fairly quiet. Both teams were having plenty of possesion but failing to break down two well organised defences. the fact defences were on top meant both teams were restricted to long range efforts with gallagher comfortably dealing with anything hit at her and Bloomer and Marsh both trying their luck at the other end but failing to really test the keeper. The best chance of the entire first half fell to Bitton as B Jones played a through ball into the path of Bloomer who raced clear but with the keeper rushing from her goal Bloomer elected to shoot instead of rounding her and the ball struck the keeper and trickled narrowly wide of the post for a corner. Bitton continued to surpise Gloucester with some great workrate and fast counter attacking play. They forced several corners which came to nothing but they were working the Gloucester defence hard. their was a bit of controversy as Bloomer looked to be free again and had her shirt nearly pulled over her head but somehow the ref gave the free kick the other way.At the other end Doidge,Knight,Price and Bray were throwing bodies on the line to protect Gallagher and the rare few occasions they did manage to get free they found Gallagher in commanding mood.Annie Hunter tried one long range effort which Gallagher easily saved before kemp tried a long free kick that was blocked by the wall. The ref blew for half time with Both teams still looking for a clear breakthrough in a very even game.
If Bitton had more than matched Gloucester in the first half the second definately belonged to Gloucester as their superior fitness levels meant they pinned Bitton in for most of the half. Bitton struggled to mount any real attacks of note as Marsh & Bloomer became very isolated with not much support. they did produce a good bit of football early in the half though as L Jones found Bloomer who in turn played the ball to Marsh who was just shaddowed out as she looked to get her shot away. Despite being on the back foot Bitton continued to defend like trojans and time and again put their body on the line. it was clear to see that they were bginnning to tire however as a few gaps began to open up. they were lucky to get away with it on 65 minutes as the ball was played in behind and it looked like Price went through the back of the player as she made a tackle but the referee waved played on. Despite being on top Gloucester just could not find a way past the Bitton defence. The closest they came was when their centre back stepped up to hit a 30 yard free kick which just clipped the top of the bar. When they did manage to beat the defence and the woodwork they found Gallagher having a great game. It loked like they had finally scored when a cross came in from the right and the Gloucester striker met it with a volley that looked to be heading into the bottom coner but Gallagher came from nowhere to produce a mind blowing save to keep the scores at 0-0 much to the joy of her team mates. Bitton were looking shattered now after the work they had put in and Hosynzak went down with cramp on a few occasions. The game crept into injury time and just as Bitton looked like they would hand on for Extra time or penalties the only goal of the game came. A long range shot was well saved by gallagher but she unfortunately could only parry the ball back into play where the only player following in was the Young Gloucester sub who rolled the ball into an open net. Bitton hardly had time to take kick off before the ref blew the final whistle.
A Great effort from everyone concerned against a team several divisions higher. And showed bitton can match it with any team on their day.We wish Gloucester the best of luck in the final when they take on Filton college
Bitton player of the match-Chloe Gallagher-did well to control her area and made several great saves
Gloucester Star player-Yvette kemp-Class act and showed her experiance to organise her tea
Bitton welcomed back Char Knight after she has been away for the last 3 games and she replaced Chloe Riley in defence and the only other change from last week was Esther Hosznyak coming in for Sarah Wilmer.
Bitton started the game looking pretty nervous and their were a few anxious moments as players failed to clear there lines but Bitton gradually settled into the game as a real midfield battle started to take place. Gloucesters outstanding player was defeinately their experianced captian Yvette Kemp and Becky & Leanne Jones did well all afternoon to keep her fairly quiet. Both teams were having plenty of possesion but failing to break down two well organised defences. the fact defences were on top meant both teams were restricted to long range efforts with gallagher comfortably dealing with anything hit at her and Bloomer and Marsh both trying their luck at the other end but failing to really test the keeper. The best chance of the entire first half fell to Bitton as B Jones played a through ball into the path of Bloomer who raced clear but with the keeper rushing from her goal Bloomer elected to shoot instead of rounding her and the ball struck the keeper and trickled narrowly wide of the post for a corner. Bitton continued to surpise Gloucester with some great workrate and fast counter attacking play. They forced several corners which came to nothing but they were working the Gloucester defence hard. their was a bit of controversy as Bloomer looked to be free again and had her shirt nearly pulled over her head but somehow the ref gave the free kick the other way.At the other end Doidge,Knight,Price and Bray were throwing bodies on the line to protect Gallagher and the rare few occasions they did manage to get free they found Gallagher in commanding mood.Annie Hunter tried one long range effort which Gallagher easily saved before kemp tried a long free kick that was blocked by the wall. The ref blew for half time with Both teams still looking for a clear breakthrough in a very even game.
If Bitton had more than matched Gloucester in the first half the second definately belonged to Gloucester as their superior fitness levels meant they pinned Bitton in for most of the half. Bitton struggled to mount any real attacks of note as Marsh & Bloomer became very isolated with not much support. they did produce a good bit of football early in the half though as L Jones found Bloomer who in turn played the ball to Marsh who was just shaddowed out as she looked to get her shot away. Despite being on the back foot Bitton continued to defend like trojans and time and again put their body on the line. it was clear to see that they were bginnning to tire however as a few gaps began to open up. they were lucky to get away with it on 65 minutes as the ball was played in behind and it looked like Price went through the back of the player as she made a tackle but the referee waved played on. Despite being on top Gloucester just could not find a way past the Bitton defence. The closest they came was when their centre back stepped up to hit a 30 yard free kick which just clipped the top of the bar. When they did manage to beat the defence and the woodwork they found Gallagher having a great game. It loked like they had finally scored when a cross came in from the right and the Gloucester striker met it with a volley that looked to be heading into the bottom coner but Gallagher came from nowhere to produce a mind blowing save to keep the scores at 0-0 much to the joy of her team mates. Bitton were looking shattered now after the work they had put in and Hosynzak went down with cramp on a few occasions. The game crept into injury time and just as Bitton looked like they would hand on for Extra time or penalties the only goal of the game came. A long range shot was well saved by gallagher but she unfortunately could only parry the ball back into play where the only player following in was the Young Gloucester sub who rolled the ball into an open net. Bitton hardly had time to take kick off before the ref blew the final whistle.
A Great effort from everyone concerned against a team several divisions higher. And showed bitton can match it with any team on their day.We wish Gloucester the best of luck in the final when they take on Filton college
Bitton player of the match-Chloe Gallagher-did well to control her area and made several great saves
Gloucester Star player-Yvette kemp-Class act and showed her experiance to organise her tea
AEK Boco 1-5 Bitton
Hulbert(2) Bloomer(2) Marsh
Bitton picked up a very usefull 3 points at local rivals AEk boco with a 5-1 victory on a beautifull sunny afternoon
Bitton continued to apply pressure to the top two with 3 points in the local derby at AEK Boco. With several players still on holiday Bitton were forced to start the game with 10 players again with the hope Meg Price may play some part in the game after completing the Bath half Marathon.
Bitton took the lead on 7 minutes with the rare treat of a set piece goal as Bray knocked in a trademark corner and Hulbert glanced a header into the far corner. Bitton showed a lack of concentration however and Boco equalised within a minute as L Jones lost possession to Dinham who played the ball into Miller who stabbed the ball past Gallagher for 1-1 after beating riley to the ball. Bray then hit the bar with another corner before Bitton made it 2-1. Bloomer made a run down the right and cut inside her marker before beating the keeper. Riley then did well to make a great last ditch tackle on the dangerous Miller. Both teams were having plenty of possession but struggling to play much football as the hard bobbly pitch meant ball control was difficult. Gallagher did well on a few occasions as she came off her line and she made one superb diving save to hold a Ferris shot. Marsh was a constant threat to the Boco defence as she time and again ran at them showing great skill. Bray was forced to make a number of important tackles as Boco looked for the ball over the top to release their speedy strikers. Bitton extended their lead right on the stroke of half time as another Bray corner was met by Marsh who rose highest in the box to power home a bullet header.
Bitton were boosted by the arrival of an 11th player in Price after she had completed her morning job in Bath. Boco also introduced Oldland player Scammell as they looked to get back into the game but it was Bitton who extended their lead with 2 minutes of the restart. Bray picked up her 3rd assist of the day as she hit a diagonal free kick from the half way line right into the path of Hulbert who beat the keeper to the ball to fire into an empty net. Scammell then broke down the right for Oldland and was brought down on the edge of the box by Price. Dinham who was having a strong game for Boco stepped up but fired her shot high over the bar. Bitton then had a heart in mouth moment as instead of catching high ball Gallagher allowed it to bounce under her bar and then watched as it bounced high over the bar.boco continued to press but doidge was once again having a fine game at the back for Bitton to thwart any danger. Boco then nearly scored from their own corner routine but b jones did well to clear of the line with Gallagher beaten. Wilmer who had a good game on the left hand side then tested the keeper from 25 yards after being set up by Bloomer. Bitton looked to haved added a 5th when B Jones played a quick free kick that set Bloomer racing away and she fired into the roof of the net but the linesman had raised his flag for offside despite Bloomer clearly being at least 5 yards onside. Bitton and Bloomer were not to be denied however as 2 minutes later B Jones played a good first time ball into L Jones who knocked it over the top and Bloomer showed her pace to race away before hitting a first time volley that flew into the net for 5-1.
A strong solid performance from Bitton with every player putting in a shift. They continue to pick up points and apply a bit of pressure to the top two
Player of the match-Terri Marsh- Great work rate and a constant threat
Boco star Player-Lucy Dinham- strong performance in the middle of the park
Bitton continued to apply pressure to the top two with 3 points in the local derby at AEK Boco. With several players still on holiday Bitton were forced to start the game with 10 players again with the hope Meg Price may play some part in the game after completing the Bath half Marathon.
Bitton took the lead on 7 minutes with the rare treat of a set piece goal as Bray knocked in a trademark corner and Hulbert glanced a header into the far corner. Bitton showed a lack of concentration however and Boco equalised within a minute as L Jones lost possession to Dinham who played the ball into Miller who stabbed the ball past Gallagher for 1-1 after beating riley to the ball. Bray then hit the bar with another corner before Bitton made it 2-1. Bloomer made a run down the right and cut inside her marker before beating the keeper. Riley then did well to make a great last ditch tackle on the dangerous Miller. Both teams were having plenty of possession but struggling to play much football as the hard bobbly pitch meant ball control was difficult. Gallagher did well on a few occasions as she came off her line and she made one superb diving save to hold a Ferris shot. Marsh was a constant threat to the Boco defence as she time and again ran at them showing great skill. Bray was forced to make a number of important tackles as Boco looked for the ball over the top to release their speedy strikers. Bitton extended their lead right on the stroke of half time as another Bray corner was met by Marsh who rose highest in the box to power home a bullet header.
Bitton were boosted by the arrival of an 11th player in Price after she had completed her morning job in Bath. Boco also introduced Oldland player Scammell as they looked to get back into the game but it was Bitton who extended their lead with 2 minutes of the restart. Bray picked up her 3rd assist of the day as she hit a diagonal free kick from the half way line right into the path of Hulbert who beat the keeper to the ball to fire into an empty net. Scammell then broke down the right for Oldland and was brought down on the edge of the box by Price. Dinham who was having a strong game for Boco stepped up but fired her shot high over the bar. Bitton then had a heart in mouth moment as instead of catching high ball Gallagher allowed it to bounce under her bar and then watched as it bounced high over the bar.boco continued to press but doidge was once again having a fine game at the back for Bitton to thwart any danger. Boco then nearly scored from their own corner routine but b jones did well to clear of the line with Gallagher beaten. Wilmer who had a good game on the left hand side then tested the keeper from 25 yards after being set up by Bloomer. Bitton looked to haved added a 5th when B Jones played a quick free kick that set Bloomer racing away and she fired into the roof of the net but the linesman had raised his flag for offside despite Bloomer clearly being at least 5 yards onside. Bitton and Bloomer were not to be denied however as 2 minutes later B Jones played a good first time ball into L Jones who knocked it over the top and Bloomer showed her pace to race away before hitting a first time volley that flew into the net for 5-1.
A strong solid performance from Bitton with every player putting in a shift. They continue to pick up points and apply a bit of pressure to the top two
Player of the match-Terri Marsh- Great work rate and a constant threat
Boco star Player-Lucy Dinham- strong performance in the middle of the park
Bitton 0-1 St Nicks
Bitton are out of this seasons League cup after a narrow 1-0 defeat to St Nicholas on a glorious Sunny day. With regular centre backs Meg Price & Char Knight both missing it was always going to be tough and the fact Bitton were also missing key midfield enforcer Leanne Jones made their job even harder. With Sarah wilmer also away they were forced to play the first 30 minutes with only 10 players as Laura Tugwell tried to get to the game, and started with 6 players playing out of position. St Nicks seemed to have a strong squad availiable for the game with only regular centre back Jess Wilson missing from their lineup.
It was the so called Green Army who started the brighter as Bitton looked to defend deep with only the 10 players. Bloomer was left up top on her own with normal strikers Marsh and Small joining B Jones & Hulbert in making up the midfield. Regular full backs Bray & Doidge were moved inside to centre back and wide players Riley & Hosznyak moved back to full back. In the opening minutes it seemed to take Bitton a few minutes to get used to their new positions at St Nicks took the game to them. Obviously still wounded from the 6-2 league defeat St nicks looked hungry and fast and Becky Rexworthy skipped past a few challenges before being pulled down for a foul on the edge of the box within the first 5 minutes. Thankfully for Bitton the usually reliable left foot of Ruby Bagge was having an off day and she scuffed her shot wide of Gallaghers goal.Bray then made a timely challenge as Amy jefferies looked to be in on goal. Bitton started to get a hold of the game as they worked hard to shut any space St Nicks were creating. Sophie Sweet was looking a threat and she tried a couple of long range efforts but they were usually straight at Gallagher who comfortably took the ball.Despite being very isolated Bloomer was working very hard up front and causing the defenders problems. It often took a combination of two or three St nicks defenders to tackle her and Coles & Hollis in paticular had to be on top form to try to shackle the pacy Bitton striker. In the 15th minute however Bloomer did finally break clear and with Bush running out from goal bloomer fired the ball low past her and it seemed to be heading in when out of nowhere St Nicks Full back Derbyshire came and cleared the ball of the line. Only minutes later and Bloomer did have the ball in the net as she broke free to head the ball over Bush but her celebrations were stopped as the linesman had flagged for an offside decision. St nicks main tactic seemed to be the long ball over the top for the pacy Rexworthy and it was working well as she seemed to have the Bitton defence for pace but she was stopped on a few occasions as Gallagher did well to sweep up and cleared any danger. St Nicks then had a couple of corners which Bitton struggled to deal with before St Nicks took the lead. A mix up on the left hand side saw the ball worked to Rexworthy in a central area and with Gallagher undecided on coming off her line or not the ball was placed past her for the opening goal.Almost straight after the goal came a key moment in the game.The ball was played into Bloomer on the halfway line with her back to goal. A clever trick saw her skip past Coles and face the defence and has she knocked the ball infront of her to run in towards goal she was chopped down by a very clumsy looking challenge by the tiny St Nicks defender Hollis. There was a case for the challange denying a goal scoring chance as no St Nicks defender would have caught Bloomer but the fact that it was so high up the pitch meant Referee Wayne Millen probably made the correct decision in only booking the minute Hollis. On 30 minutes Bitton were finally restored to the full compliment of 11 players as Tugwell arrived. She slotted in at left mid with veteran striker Small being pushed up top to try and help out the over worked Bloomer. In the 40th Minute Bitton missed their best chance of the game when St Nicks failed to deal with a corner by Bray from the left and the ball fell at the feet of Hulbert only 4 yards out but she somehow managed to smash the ball over, clipping the bar on the way. Rexworthy nearly got in a again but once again Gallagher came rushing off her line and then Jeffereies then fired wide for st nicks before the ref blew his whistle for Half time
Bitton came out in confident mood for the second half and knew if they could play a bit deeper and deny Jefferies and Rexworthy any space in behind they were always likely to get a chance or two at the other end.The second period was once again very even with both teams working hard to try and gain control and with chances very rare as both defences stood firm.The midfield battle between B jones & Marsh and the St Nixcks pair of Ford & Granger was keenly contested all afternoon with all four players having good games.Despite it being tight Bitton did get in however as B Jones played a good ball through to Bloomer who raced clear. Bush came flying out of her goal and rather than going round her Bloomer attempted the shot that was straight at her. With Bush now on the ground the ball rebounded straight to Bloomer on the edge of the box and she attempted a lob that looked to be heading in but landed on top of the bar and bounced behind for a goal kick. As the half progressed the game became a bit stretched. Coles did well at the back for st Nicks to deny Bloomer and Marsh and Bray & Doidge both provided last ditch tackles to thwart St nicks attacks. Bush in the St nicks goal then did well on a few occasions to rush of her line to stop any attacks. Both Jefferies for st nicks and Bloomer for Bitton then had a few chances each at either end but all shots were straight at the keepers. Marsh was then pushed up top in search for an equaliser and she looked to be have done well when she got into a good position inside right but her attempted cross-shot went behind the goal with Bloomer waiting in the middle. St Nicks then wasted a glorious chance to settle the tie when a great cross from the right fell right at the feet of Jefferies only 8 yards out but she blazed her shot high over the bar. St Nicks had one final effort on goal when they were awarded a free kcik on the left side of the penalty area and up stepped the excellent sweet who saw her stinging shot bounce off the top of the bar. Despite their best efforts Bitton just could not find a way past the St nicks defence and it is the away side who move onto the semi finals where they will travel to Forest Of Dean.
An excellent game played between two very evenly matched sides which could have went either way. Bitton battled valiantly without 4 regular players but just couldnt find a way past Bush and the St Nicks defence. It was nice to see two teams giving a 100% with all their efforts concentrated on the actual game instead of the sillyness that sometimes creeps in. Special mention to referee Wayne Millen who handled the game superbly.
Player of the match-Megan Bloomer- Worked her socks off and was a constant threat
St Nicks Star player-Sophie Sweet-Worked hard all game and showed real quality on the ball
It was the so called Green Army who started the brighter as Bitton looked to defend deep with only the 10 players. Bloomer was left up top on her own with normal strikers Marsh and Small joining B Jones & Hulbert in making up the midfield. Regular full backs Bray & Doidge were moved inside to centre back and wide players Riley & Hosznyak moved back to full back. In the opening minutes it seemed to take Bitton a few minutes to get used to their new positions at St Nicks took the game to them. Obviously still wounded from the 6-2 league defeat St nicks looked hungry and fast and Becky Rexworthy skipped past a few challenges before being pulled down for a foul on the edge of the box within the first 5 minutes. Thankfully for Bitton the usually reliable left foot of Ruby Bagge was having an off day and she scuffed her shot wide of Gallaghers goal.Bray then made a timely challenge as Amy jefferies looked to be in on goal. Bitton started to get a hold of the game as they worked hard to shut any space St Nicks were creating. Sophie Sweet was looking a threat and she tried a couple of long range efforts but they were usually straight at Gallagher who comfortably took the ball.Despite being very isolated Bloomer was working very hard up front and causing the defenders problems. It often took a combination of two or three St nicks defenders to tackle her and Coles & Hollis in paticular had to be on top form to try to shackle the pacy Bitton striker. In the 15th minute however Bloomer did finally break clear and with Bush running out from goal bloomer fired the ball low past her and it seemed to be heading in when out of nowhere St Nicks Full back Derbyshire came and cleared the ball of the line. Only minutes later and Bloomer did have the ball in the net as she broke free to head the ball over Bush but her celebrations were stopped as the linesman had flagged for an offside decision. St nicks main tactic seemed to be the long ball over the top for the pacy Rexworthy and it was working well as she seemed to have the Bitton defence for pace but she was stopped on a few occasions as Gallagher did well to sweep up and cleared any danger. St Nicks then had a couple of corners which Bitton struggled to deal with before St Nicks took the lead. A mix up on the left hand side saw the ball worked to Rexworthy in a central area and with Gallagher undecided on coming off her line or not the ball was placed past her for the opening goal.Almost straight after the goal came a key moment in the game.The ball was played into Bloomer on the halfway line with her back to goal. A clever trick saw her skip past Coles and face the defence and has she knocked the ball infront of her to run in towards goal she was chopped down by a very clumsy looking challenge by the tiny St Nicks defender Hollis. There was a case for the challange denying a goal scoring chance as no St Nicks defender would have caught Bloomer but the fact that it was so high up the pitch meant Referee Wayne Millen probably made the correct decision in only booking the minute Hollis. On 30 minutes Bitton were finally restored to the full compliment of 11 players as Tugwell arrived. She slotted in at left mid with veteran striker Small being pushed up top to try and help out the over worked Bloomer. In the 40th Minute Bitton missed their best chance of the game when St Nicks failed to deal with a corner by Bray from the left and the ball fell at the feet of Hulbert only 4 yards out but she somehow managed to smash the ball over, clipping the bar on the way. Rexworthy nearly got in a again but once again Gallagher came rushing off her line and then Jeffereies then fired wide for st nicks before the ref blew his whistle for Half time
Bitton came out in confident mood for the second half and knew if they could play a bit deeper and deny Jefferies and Rexworthy any space in behind they were always likely to get a chance or two at the other end.The second period was once again very even with both teams working hard to try and gain control and with chances very rare as both defences stood firm.The midfield battle between B jones & Marsh and the St Nixcks pair of Ford & Granger was keenly contested all afternoon with all four players having good games.Despite it being tight Bitton did get in however as B Jones played a good ball through to Bloomer who raced clear. Bush came flying out of her goal and rather than going round her Bloomer attempted the shot that was straight at her. With Bush now on the ground the ball rebounded straight to Bloomer on the edge of the box and she attempted a lob that looked to be heading in but landed on top of the bar and bounced behind for a goal kick. As the half progressed the game became a bit stretched. Coles did well at the back for st Nicks to deny Bloomer and Marsh and Bray & Doidge both provided last ditch tackles to thwart St nicks attacks. Bush in the St nicks goal then did well on a few occasions to rush of her line to stop any attacks. Both Jefferies for st nicks and Bloomer for Bitton then had a few chances each at either end but all shots were straight at the keepers. Marsh was then pushed up top in search for an equaliser and she looked to be have done well when she got into a good position inside right but her attempted cross-shot went behind the goal with Bloomer waiting in the middle. St Nicks then wasted a glorious chance to settle the tie when a great cross from the right fell right at the feet of Jefferies only 8 yards out but she blazed her shot high over the bar. St Nicks had one final effort on goal when they were awarded a free kcik on the left side of the penalty area and up stepped the excellent sweet who saw her stinging shot bounce off the top of the bar. Despite their best efforts Bitton just could not find a way past the St nicks defence and it is the away side who move onto the semi finals where they will travel to Forest Of Dean.
An excellent game played between two very evenly matched sides which could have went either way. Bitton battled valiantly without 4 regular players but just couldnt find a way past Bush and the St Nicks defence. It was nice to see two teams giving a 100% with all their efforts concentrated on the actual game instead of the sillyness that sometimes creeps in. Special mention to referee Wayne Millen who handled the game superbly.
Player of the match-Megan Bloomer- Worked her socks off and was a constant threat
St Nicks Star player-Sophie Sweet-Worked hard all game and showed real quality on the ball
Cheltenham Cs 0-1 Bitton
Marsh
Chav had a great game
Bitton advanced to the semi-final of the GFA cup with a 1-0 win over Cheltenham Civil Service. With Both Megan Bloomer & Char Knight struggling with illness and Esther Hosznyak working Bitton were forced to make a few changes so Laura Tugwell came in for her first appearance of the season and veteran Deb small started up front.
After losing here 3-0 a few weeks ago Bitton knew they were in for a tough game against Cheltenham but with the pitch in excellent condition a more fluid passing game was expected instead of the scrappy affair the two teams played out before. Bitton started well and some crisp passing showed they were looking to carry on the form of last week when they played so well. Great play from Carly Bray who was superb all afternoon created an opportunity for Deb Small but the ball seemed to get stuck under her feet and the defender cleared before Chloe Gallagher made a good stop at the other end to deny a Cheltenham attack. Bitton went close when a couple of good corners from Bray just needed a Bitton head but it always seemed to be Cheltenham who were attacking the ball and clearing. Doidge and Price were in great form denying the dangerous Cheltenham attacks any space and Bray and Riley were getting forward well from fullback. Marsh then had a couple of long range efforts easily dealt with by the Cheltenham keeper as Bitton looked to press home their dominance by getting the opening goal. They could not have come any closer on 35 mins when Bray yet again played a stunning cross field ball which was met with a great touch by the impressive Nat Hulbert and she struck the ball back across the keeper into the far corner but the ball struck the inside of the post and rolled across the line with the keeper stranded before being cleared to safety. Marsh was then brought down out wide and Bray hit an in swinging cross which was well taken under the bar by the Keeper.
Bitton were on top in the first half but Cheltenham were always dangerous on the break and it needed a goal to settle the Bitton nerves. Bitton again started well and more corners were scrambled away including one that dropped at Hulberts feet only 6 yards out but the keeper managed to dive on the ball. Leanne Jones did well to wriggle free but fired her shot over before Becky Jones had a shot from the edge of the box but her shot was straight at the keeper. B & L Jones were starting to really get on top in the midfield as the game began to get stretched and Tugwell was doing well down the left to get some good crosses in. The deadlock was finally broken on 60 mins when another corner was cleared by Cheltenham but With Marsh having her back to goal on the edge of the box she fired the ball back over her shoulder and saw the ball loop into the far corner for what proved to be the winning goal. Going behind seemed to stir Cheltenham and they had their best spell of the game shortly after. Finally the dangerous Riley got away and was clean in on goal but Gallagher came rushing out and forced her to go wide of the goal which in turn allowed Bray to get back and make a crucial tackle. Bitton continued to defend well and Cheltenham rarely looked like breaking them down, they tried a couple of long range efforts but it was Bitton who looked more threatening in the closing minutes as wilmer did well to combine with b jones who set up Marsh but she was crowded out as she wound up to shoot.
A solid performance for Bitton who were the better side overall and probably could have won by a few more. They now advance to the Semi-finals.
Player of the Match-Carly Bray- Excellent performance in both defence and attack. Looked back to her best
Cheltenham Cs star player-Terri Lockett-Worked very hard in the middle of the park
After losing here 3-0 a few weeks ago Bitton knew they were in for a tough game against Cheltenham but with the pitch in excellent condition a more fluid passing game was expected instead of the scrappy affair the two teams played out before. Bitton started well and some crisp passing showed they were looking to carry on the form of last week when they played so well. Great play from Carly Bray who was superb all afternoon created an opportunity for Deb Small but the ball seemed to get stuck under her feet and the defender cleared before Chloe Gallagher made a good stop at the other end to deny a Cheltenham attack. Bitton went close when a couple of good corners from Bray just needed a Bitton head but it always seemed to be Cheltenham who were attacking the ball and clearing. Doidge and Price were in great form denying the dangerous Cheltenham attacks any space and Bray and Riley were getting forward well from fullback. Marsh then had a couple of long range efforts easily dealt with by the Cheltenham keeper as Bitton looked to press home their dominance by getting the opening goal. They could not have come any closer on 35 mins when Bray yet again played a stunning cross field ball which was met with a great touch by the impressive Nat Hulbert and she struck the ball back across the keeper into the far corner but the ball struck the inside of the post and rolled across the line with the keeper stranded before being cleared to safety. Marsh was then brought down out wide and Bray hit an in swinging cross which was well taken under the bar by the Keeper.
Bitton were on top in the first half but Cheltenham were always dangerous on the break and it needed a goal to settle the Bitton nerves. Bitton again started well and more corners were scrambled away including one that dropped at Hulberts feet only 6 yards out but the keeper managed to dive on the ball. Leanne Jones did well to wriggle free but fired her shot over before Becky Jones had a shot from the edge of the box but her shot was straight at the keeper. B & L Jones were starting to really get on top in the midfield as the game began to get stretched and Tugwell was doing well down the left to get some good crosses in. The deadlock was finally broken on 60 mins when another corner was cleared by Cheltenham but With Marsh having her back to goal on the edge of the box she fired the ball back over her shoulder and saw the ball loop into the far corner for what proved to be the winning goal. Going behind seemed to stir Cheltenham and they had their best spell of the game shortly after. Finally the dangerous Riley got away and was clean in on goal but Gallagher came rushing out and forced her to go wide of the goal which in turn allowed Bray to get back and make a crucial tackle. Bitton continued to defend well and Cheltenham rarely looked like breaking them down, they tried a couple of long range efforts but it was Bitton who looked more threatening in the closing minutes as wilmer did well to combine with b jones who set up Marsh but she was crowded out as she wound up to shoot.
A solid performance for Bitton who were the better side overall and probably could have won by a few more. They now advance to the Semi-finals.
Player of the Match-Carly Bray- Excellent performance in both defence and attack. Looked back to her best
Cheltenham Cs star player-Terri Lockett-Worked very hard in the middle of the park
Bitton 5-0 Wotton Bassett
Marsh,Bloomer,Hosznyak,B Jones,L Jones
Bitton secured a place in the 2nd round of the league cup with a 5-0 win over the division 2 side Wotton Bassett
Despite the heavy pitch Bitton played some of their best football of the season to advance to the next round of the cup
Bitton did not have the best of starts with several players still suffering the effects of a heavy Saturday night after Big c’s 21st.They actually started the game with only 9 players as Bloomer & L Jones did not arrive until 10 minutes after kick off. The players that started defended deep and restricted Bassett any space in behind.The opening few minutes despite being mostly played in the Bitton half passed without any real incident other than the excellent Basset striker who wriggled her way down the right but her cross was well gathered by Gallagher in the Bitton goal. The arrival of Bloomer and L Jones meant Bitton could revert to a more attacking formation and they started to get a hold of the game. A feature of this match was the Passing with Bassett linking up well but more importantly Bitton starting to keep things simple choosing the shorter pass instead of the long direct route. Even the defence were knocking it around with extra confidence and on several occasions taking big risks as they played out from the back. Bloomer raced away and was brought down about 30 yards out when in on goal but the ref waved played on and then a Hosznyak cross was met by Marsh but her shot trickled wide. Some good defending from the back four of Bray, Riley, Knight and Price kept Basset out as they looked to press but it was Bitton who took the lead on the half hour when another good cross from Hosznyak was just missed by Bloomer and it fell to Marsh who wrong footed the keeper to fire home. Bitton were playing some real slick football and the 2nd goal arrived a few minutes later after an excellent move involving about 8 players as Bitton kept the ball from right to left, along the back line and into midfield before it found Bloomer, who managed to wriggle away from a few challenges before drilling the ball home. It Was probably a tad harsh on Basset to be going in 2-0 down as they had played some good stuff and had plenty of the ball without really creating too many clear cut chances.
Bitton started the second half well on top and some neat football was a joy to watch at times as they made the ball do the work switching the play and moving the Bassettt defence around. A fine ball over the top was met by Marsh who superbly lobbed the keeper only for play to be brought back for offside. Bassett had a couple of breaks away but it was mostly Bitton who were probing and they got the 3rd after a superb ball in behind by Riley found the Basset defence napping and Marsh was free on the right her low cross was met at the far post by the inrushing Hosznyak who slid the ball home to give Bitton that extra bit of breathing space. Gallagher in the Bitton goal was called into action after Basset broke and after a the first shot was parried by Gallagher the striker looked set to score when out of nowhere Bray made a superb last ditch sliding tackle to clear the danger. Basset broke again 5 minutes later with Riley doing well to hold the play up when outnumbered and force them to shoot wide. Bitton made it 4-0 on 75 min when Bloomer did well down the right to beat her marker and cross for Marsh to flick on and find B Jones who tapped home at the far post. Marsh was then fortunate to stay out of the refs book when she appeared to kick out after a challenge from the overworked basset defence. Basset changed their keeper as their full back Gammon took over the gloves but she was beaten herself when once again Bloomer crossed, this time from the left and the superb L Jones capped a great personal second half display with a calm finish.
A great performance from Bitton who showed what they are capable of when the get the ball down and play it simple. They now advance to the 2nd round where they have set up a repeat of last years final and they will meet St Nicks-tie to be played 26th Feb
Player of the match-Leanne Jones-Superb midfield display, especially in the 2nd half.
Wotton Basset star player-Claire White-strong running and a constant threat up front
Despite the heavy pitch Bitton played some of their best football of the season to advance to the next round of the cup
Bitton did not have the best of starts with several players still suffering the effects of a heavy Saturday night after Big c’s 21st.They actually started the game with only 9 players as Bloomer & L Jones did not arrive until 10 minutes after kick off. The players that started defended deep and restricted Bassett any space in behind.The opening few minutes despite being mostly played in the Bitton half passed without any real incident other than the excellent Basset striker who wriggled her way down the right but her cross was well gathered by Gallagher in the Bitton goal. The arrival of Bloomer and L Jones meant Bitton could revert to a more attacking formation and they started to get a hold of the game. A feature of this match was the Passing with Bassett linking up well but more importantly Bitton starting to keep things simple choosing the shorter pass instead of the long direct route. Even the defence were knocking it around with extra confidence and on several occasions taking big risks as they played out from the back. Bloomer raced away and was brought down about 30 yards out when in on goal but the ref waved played on and then a Hosznyak cross was met by Marsh but her shot trickled wide. Some good defending from the back four of Bray, Riley, Knight and Price kept Basset out as they looked to press but it was Bitton who took the lead on the half hour when another good cross from Hosznyak was just missed by Bloomer and it fell to Marsh who wrong footed the keeper to fire home. Bitton were playing some real slick football and the 2nd goal arrived a few minutes later after an excellent move involving about 8 players as Bitton kept the ball from right to left, along the back line and into midfield before it found Bloomer, who managed to wriggle away from a few challenges before drilling the ball home. It Was probably a tad harsh on Basset to be going in 2-0 down as they had played some good stuff and had plenty of the ball without really creating too many clear cut chances.
Bitton started the second half well on top and some neat football was a joy to watch at times as they made the ball do the work switching the play and moving the Bassettt defence around. A fine ball over the top was met by Marsh who superbly lobbed the keeper only for play to be brought back for offside. Bassett had a couple of breaks away but it was mostly Bitton who were probing and they got the 3rd after a superb ball in behind by Riley found the Basset defence napping and Marsh was free on the right her low cross was met at the far post by the inrushing Hosznyak who slid the ball home to give Bitton that extra bit of breathing space. Gallagher in the Bitton goal was called into action after Basset broke and after a the first shot was parried by Gallagher the striker looked set to score when out of nowhere Bray made a superb last ditch sliding tackle to clear the danger. Basset broke again 5 minutes later with Riley doing well to hold the play up when outnumbered and force them to shoot wide. Bitton made it 4-0 on 75 min when Bloomer did well down the right to beat her marker and cross for Marsh to flick on and find B Jones who tapped home at the far post. Marsh was then fortunate to stay out of the refs book when she appeared to kick out after a challenge from the overworked basset defence. Basset changed their keeper as their full back Gammon took over the gloves but she was beaten herself when once again Bloomer crossed, this time from the left and the superb L Jones capped a great personal second half display with a calm finish.
A great performance from Bitton who showed what they are capable of when the get the ball down and play it simple. They now advance to the 2nd round where they have set up a repeat of last years final and they will meet St Nicks-tie to be played 26th Feb
Player of the match-Leanne Jones-Superb midfield display, especially in the 2nd half.
Wotton Basset star player-Claire White-strong running and a constant threat up front
Cheltenham Civil Service 3-0 Bitton
Bitton were soundly beaten by a very strong looking Cheltenham Civil service side as the home side scored 3 without reply to hand Bitton their second league defeat of the season.
With regular keeper Chloe Gallagher missing Bitton were forced to play defender Chloe Riley in goal and Sarah Wilmer was also asked to play out of position at left midfield with Hosynzak not arriving in time for kick off. In general though Bitton produced a very poor performance lacking any creativity and were 2nd best in most areas.
After last week’s tight game another entertaining affair was expected. The game started fairly even with both team looking to get a grip of the midfield. Cheltenham was first to threaten when Doidge and Knight both miskicked there clearance and the ball broke to a Cheltenham striker but her shot was well save by Riley in the Bitton goal. After that Bitton seemed to gain more control of the game and it was mostly Bitton pressure for the next 20 mins. Firstly Bloomer wriggled free at the near post but her shot was straight at the keeper and then Hulbert somehow managed to head over from a corner when she was right under the bar. Bloomer then hit a long range effort that was straight at the keeper. A feature of the game was the distance between the Bitton midfield and strikers as time and again Marsh and Bloomer were snuffed out by the hardworking Cheltenham defence who seemed to always outnumber the Bitton strikers with 4 or 5 defenders back. Bray had a free kick on the corner of the box which she hit over and then the keeper made a superb diving save as she rushed out at the feet of Marsh who had been sent clear. Bitton had been fairly dominant for a period but Cheltenham always looked a threat on the break and they opened the scoring on 30 mins when Bray dried a cross field free kick which was intercepted and a player broke free on the left and her attempted cross dropped over Riley and into the net with a Cheltenham player racing in to bundle the ball over the line. The offside flag was raised but the referee ignored the linesman stating the ball had already crossed the line before the onrushing offside player had bundled it. The goal seemed to spark Cheltenham and they dominated the next 15 minutes time and again cutting through the Bitton defence with ease. A few scramble were cleared and Riley held onto a long range shot before a Cheltenham player picked up the ball on the right hand touchline and sent a sweet 35 yard effort which sailed into the net over the head Riley.
Bitton had most of the possession first half but had no cutting edge and Cheltenham had come back to dominate and score two goals so Bitton would be looking to show an improvement in the second half but if anything they started even worse has Cheltenham came flying out the blocks and were quicker to every loose ball and looked stronger all over the park. Bitton seemed to forget to play football instead choosing to just launch long ball after long ball over the top for Bloomer and the injured Marsh to chase. Cheltenham always had a player covering and were defending very well tor restrict any clear cut chances. The game then became very scrappy with a few strange refereeing decisions and a bit of unwanted abuse from the sidelines directed at the Bitton players. The Cheltenham players were winding the clock down very effectively which was angering the Bitton players and they seemed to lose all discipline and were more concerned with moaning at the ref and looking for an argument than they were with playing the game. Bitton were awarded a free kick right on the edge of the Area which Bray hit low but was cleared off the line by the covering defender. With the two goal cushion Cheltenham were happy to sit deep and hit on the counter attack and they created several good chances which would have seen them increase the lead. Bitton without playing well managed a few chances but nothing really clear cut. The game was finally settle on 80 mins when the pacy Cheltenham striker ran through to slot the ball past Riley with ease.
Back to the drawing board for Bitton, who seemed to have forgot the basics of football. They looked unfit and a team lacking ideas but you don’t become a bad team overnight. There is still a long way to go this season so will be interesting to see the character of the side and how they respond next week in the league cup against Wotton Basset.
Player of the match-Meg Bloomer-kept trying and worked hard to find an opening
With regular keeper Chloe Gallagher missing Bitton were forced to play defender Chloe Riley in goal and Sarah Wilmer was also asked to play out of position at left midfield with Hosynzak not arriving in time for kick off. In general though Bitton produced a very poor performance lacking any creativity and were 2nd best in most areas.
After last week’s tight game another entertaining affair was expected. The game started fairly even with both team looking to get a grip of the midfield. Cheltenham was first to threaten when Doidge and Knight both miskicked there clearance and the ball broke to a Cheltenham striker but her shot was well save by Riley in the Bitton goal. After that Bitton seemed to gain more control of the game and it was mostly Bitton pressure for the next 20 mins. Firstly Bloomer wriggled free at the near post but her shot was straight at the keeper and then Hulbert somehow managed to head over from a corner when she was right under the bar. Bloomer then hit a long range effort that was straight at the keeper. A feature of the game was the distance between the Bitton midfield and strikers as time and again Marsh and Bloomer were snuffed out by the hardworking Cheltenham defence who seemed to always outnumber the Bitton strikers with 4 or 5 defenders back. Bray had a free kick on the corner of the box which she hit over and then the keeper made a superb diving save as she rushed out at the feet of Marsh who had been sent clear. Bitton had been fairly dominant for a period but Cheltenham always looked a threat on the break and they opened the scoring on 30 mins when Bray dried a cross field free kick which was intercepted and a player broke free on the left and her attempted cross dropped over Riley and into the net with a Cheltenham player racing in to bundle the ball over the line. The offside flag was raised but the referee ignored the linesman stating the ball had already crossed the line before the onrushing offside player had bundled it. The goal seemed to spark Cheltenham and they dominated the next 15 minutes time and again cutting through the Bitton defence with ease. A few scramble were cleared and Riley held onto a long range shot before a Cheltenham player picked up the ball on the right hand touchline and sent a sweet 35 yard effort which sailed into the net over the head Riley.
Bitton had most of the possession first half but had no cutting edge and Cheltenham had come back to dominate and score two goals so Bitton would be looking to show an improvement in the second half but if anything they started even worse has Cheltenham came flying out the blocks and were quicker to every loose ball and looked stronger all over the park. Bitton seemed to forget to play football instead choosing to just launch long ball after long ball over the top for Bloomer and the injured Marsh to chase. Cheltenham always had a player covering and were defending very well tor restrict any clear cut chances. The game then became very scrappy with a few strange refereeing decisions and a bit of unwanted abuse from the sidelines directed at the Bitton players. The Cheltenham players were winding the clock down very effectively which was angering the Bitton players and they seemed to lose all discipline and were more concerned with moaning at the ref and looking for an argument than they were with playing the game. Bitton were awarded a free kick right on the edge of the Area which Bray hit low but was cleared off the line by the covering defender. With the two goal cushion Cheltenham were happy to sit deep and hit on the counter attack and they created several good chances which would have seen them increase the lead. Bitton without playing well managed a few chances but nothing really clear cut. The game was finally settle on 80 mins when the pacy Cheltenham striker ran through to slot the ball past Riley with ease.
Back to the drawing board for Bitton, who seemed to have forgot the basics of football. They looked unfit and a team lacking ideas but you don’t become a bad team overnight. There is still a long way to go this season so will be interesting to see the character of the side and how they respond next week in the league cup against Wotton Basset.
Player of the match-Meg Bloomer-kept trying and worked hard to find an opening
Bitton 2-1 Cheltenham Civil service
Price,B Jones
action from the game
Bitton moved to the top of the table thanks to a 2-1 win against Cheltenham Civil service. Meg Price had given Bitton a first half lead and Bitton missed a host of chances before Gemma Riley equalised with 10 minutes to go. Bitton came back and got the winner in the final minute from Becky Jones
With the top 2 teams in the league on show it was bound to be a tough game and with the heavy pitch also making it difficult to pass the match was a real battle with both teams showing great commitment and endeavour to produce an excellent entertaining game. The game started fairly scrappy with a few heavy challenges but it was Bitton who started to create the better chances. Hulbert, Marsh and Bloomer all wasted good chances when in decent positions. Doidge was looking solid at full back and played several great balls down the flank to set Bitton away but they were being shut down by the over worked Cheltenham defence. Bitton felt they should have had a penalty when Marsh was sent clear and as she knocked the ball round the rushing keeper she was caught with the keepers swinging leg but Marsh tried to stay on her feet and the ref waved play on as the danger was cleared. It was mostly Bitton but Cheltenham were defending well and looking dangerous on the break with the excellent Gemma Riley causing problems with her movement and direct running. Gallagher made a save from a stinging shot from Cheltenham before Bloomer and Marsh both missed two more chances when they should have done better. Cheltenham came within inches of taking the lead as Riley broke free from the half way line and hit a rasping 25yard drive that smashed off the bar with Gallagher not even moving. Bitton responded with Bloomer who broke free and hit a great strike of her own which looked in all the way before just rising and grazing the top of the bar. With the game looking like it would remain goalless at the break Bitton forced one more corner and after a clever short routine involving B Jones Bray lofted the ball into the area where it was only cleared to edge of the Box. Waiting on the edge was Captain Meg Price who produced a simply stunning volley which sailed into the roof of the net to give Bitton the lead.
With Price having to be withdrawn at half time after injuring herself in her knee slide celebration Chloe Riley came into the full back position with Sarah Doidge moving into the centre. Bitton knew they had to start taking some of the chances or they would get punished and they started the second half in fine form. Firstly Bloomer produced a superb cross from the left that Marsh just failed to connect with before a great nod down from Hulbert put Bloomer in on goal but she pulled her shot wide when only 10 yards out. Cheltenham were having the occasional break but it was mostly Bitton still looking to break down the well organised Cheltenham defence. The midfield battle continued with B Jones & L Jones continuing to work hard and battle away with their opponents. Char Knight had to be on her toes on a few occasions as she did well to cover through balls from Cheltenham looking to get in behind. Marsh missed another great chance after being put clear by Bray before a period of Cheltenham pressure. A couple of long range efforts failed to trouble Gallagher and the Cheltenham striker missed a great chance when she got on the end of a cross but volleyed wide. Riley then made space on the edge of the area and her shot went through a crowded area and found the corner to make it 1-1 with Gallagher leaving it thinking it was going wide. Bitton needed to respond now and Doidge made way for Deb Small with 5 minutes remaining. After a period of pressure from Bitton where L Jones went close a few times and the Cheltenham keeper made a good save it looked as though the game would end in a draw. One last effort from the Ton in the dying minutes forced a corner and a great delivery from Bray saw Hulbert get on the end of it but her header went in the wrong direction and fortunately landed to B Jones who hit a first time left foot volley which lofted over the head of the keeper and into the net to spark wild celebrations. Cheltenham literally only had time to pump the ball forward before the ref blew for the final whistle.
In truth Bitton had enough chances to win comfortably but Cheltenham worked hard and made life difficult and nearly snatched an unlikely point. The two teams will meet again next week in the reverse fixture which is sure to be another great game
Player of the Match-Sarah Doidge- Solid display covering two positions with great reading of the game.
Cheltenham Civil service Star player-Gemma Riley- a constant threat
With the top 2 teams in the league on show it was bound to be a tough game and with the heavy pitch also making it difficult to pass the match was a real battle with both teams showing great commitment and endeavour to produce an excellent entertaining game. The game started fairly scrappy with a few heavy challenges but it was Bitton who started to create the better chances. Hulbert, Marsh and Bloomer all wasted good chances when in decent positions. Doidge was looking solid at full back and played several great balls down the flank to set Bitton away but they were being shut down by the over worked Cheltenham defence. Bitton felt they should have had a penalty when Marsh was sent clear and as she knocked the ball round the rushing keeper she was caught with the keepers swinging leg but Marsh tried to stay on her feet and the ref waved play on as the danger was cleared. It was mostly Bitton but Cheltenham were defending well and looking dangerous on the break with the excellent Gemma Riley causing problems with her movement and direct running. Gallagher made a save from a stinging shot from Cheltenham before Bloomer and Marsh both missed two more chances when they should have done better. Cheltenham came within inches of taking the lead as Riley broke free from the half way line and hit a rasping 25yard drive that smashed off the bar with Gallagher not even moving. Bitton responded with Bloomer who broke free and hit a great strike of her own which looked in all the way before just rising and grazing the top of the bar. With the game looking like it would remain goalless at the break Bitton forced one more corner and after a clever short routine involving B Jones Bray lofted the ball into the area where it was only cleared to edge of the Box. Waiting on the edge was Captain Meg Price who produced a simply stunning volley which sailed into the roof of the net to give Bitton the lead.
With Price having to be withdrawn at half time after injuring herself in her knee slide celebration Chloe Riley came into the full back position with Sarah Doidge moving into the centre. Bitton knew they had to start taking some of the chances or they would get punished and they started the second half in fine form. Firstly Bloomer produced a superb cross from the left that Marsh just failed to connect with before a great nod down from Hulbert put Bloomer in on goal but she pulled her shot wide when only 10 yards out. Cheltenham were having the occasional break but it was mostly Bitton still looking to break down the well organised Cheltenham defence. The midfield battle continued with B Jones & L Jones continuing to work hard and battle away with their opponents. Char Knight had to be on her toes on a few occasions as she did well to cover through balls from Cheltenham looking to get in behind. Marsh missed another great chance after being put clear by Bray before a period of Cheltenham pressure. A couple of long range efforts failed to trouble Gallagher and the Cheltenham striker missed a great chance when she got on the end of a cross but volleyed wide. Riley then made space on the edge of the area and her shot went through a crowded area and found the corner to make it 1-1 with Gallagher leaving it thinking it was going wide. Bitton needed to respond now and Doidge made way for Deb Small with 5 minutes remaining. After a period of pressure from Bitton where L Jones went close a few times and the Cheltenham keeper made a good save it looked as though the game would end in a draw. One last effort from the Ton in the dying minutes forced a corner and a great delivery from Bray saw Hulbert get on the end of it but her header went in the wrong direction and fortunately landed to B Jones who hit a first time left foot volley which lofted over the head of the keeper and into the net to spark wild celebrations. Cheltenham literally only had time to pump the ball forward before the ref blew for the final whistle.
In truth Bitton had enough chances to win comfortably but Cheltenham worked hard and made life difficult and nearly snatched an unlikely point. The two teams will meet again next week in the reverse fixture which is sure to be another great game
Player of the Match-Sarah Doidge- Solid display covering two positions with great reading of the game.
Cheltenham Civil service Star player-Gemma Riley- a constant threat
Bitton 12-0 Dursley
Bloomer(5), Marsh(3)
B Jones,L Jones,Hurst,Bray
Bitton stormed to the top of the table with a convincing 12-0 win over bottom club Dursley. With a bit more composure and some better finishing the score line could have been much greater but Bitton were glad to finally get a game in and now sit top of the pile.
The game was actually pretty even for the first 15 minutes or so with Dursley having plenty of the ball and forcing several corners but it was a case of when and not if Bitton would score. They had already gone close on a few occasions when B Jones played in Hurst and with acres of space to move into she decided to hit the ball early and saw her long range effort fly past the keeper for 1-0. The Dursley keeper was lucky to stay on the pitch minutes later as Bloomer raced in on goal and was clearly brought down by the rushing keeper but the ref decided against even giving the free kick. Dursley were playing a very high line looking to catch Bitton offside but time and again Bitton broke free and Bloomer and Hulbert both missed chances when 1 on 1 with the overworked Dursley keeper. L Jones then crossed for Marsh but she mis hit her shot before Marsh did well down the wing and played in Bloomer to make it 2-0. It was all Bitton and Bloomer rattled the bar after good work from L Jones. The Bitton defence had now got to grips with the speedy Dursley striker allowing the Midfield to pour forward in waves of attacks on the Dursley goal. B Jones got on the score sheet when she ran beyond the strikers and was found with a pass from Riley before firing past the keeper and almost immediately Marsh added a fourth when she fired home from close range.
Bitton were even more dominant in the second half and smashed in a further 8 goals. Many missed the early Bloomer goal almost straight from kick off after she tapped in when the keeper spilled a Marsh shot to make it 5-0. Bloomer then squared it for 6-0 as Marsh tapped home. Bloomer was then played in for her hat trick by Marsh as her powerful shot was palmed up by the keeper but the ball dropped over the line. It was all Bitton and the Dursley keeper made several good saves. Bitton were also denied by a few strange off side decisions when players were running from their own half but they continued to pass the ball well and Marsh grabbed her own hat trick when L Jones played her in. Bloomer scored again with her best goal of the game when she struck home from the edge of the area for 9-0. The tenth goal of the game was scored by L Jones after Hosynzak played her in and with the keeper stuck to her line she dribbled right into the 6 yard box before slotting home. There were goals coming thick and fast and Bloomer grabbed her fifth of the afternoon. With only seconds remaining Bitton were awarded a free kick on the corner of the area and up stepped Bray to rifle the ball past the stranded keeper.
Bitton Star player-Megan Bloomer- Fired in 5 goals to take her to 12 for the season
pic from Bristol soccerworld
Bristol & West 0-5 Bitton
Marsh(2), Bloomer, Hulbert,Hoszynak
The Ton returned to winning ways with a comfortable 5-0 win at Bristo & West. Megan Bloomer came back in to partner Terri Marsh up front and Chloe Riley came in to replace Sarah Doidge at right back.
On a very wet and boggy pitch Bittton Dominated from the first whistle to last. B&W are always a tough nut to crack and solid at the back but Bitton were too strong for them today with B&W not even managing a shot until the 88th minute and even that was not on target. B&W decided to try and contain Bitton and went with 5 in midfield with just the 1 striker. This meant that Becky & Leanne Jones were often outnumbered in midfield but their hard work meant when they did receive the ball they were able to get it wide and with only 1 striker it meant both full backs Carly Bray and Chloe Riley were given the freedom to push forward and this was a feature of the whole game as Bitton used the wide areas very well. Becky Hurst started well with a few good runs down the left wing and the first chance of the game came after only 5 minutes when a perfect Bray corner was missed by everybody and saw Price with a free header only 6 yards out but she somehow managed to head it over. A few minutes later and Bray was breaking down the left and she hit a cross that nearly dropped in at the far post but the keeper just managed to claw the ball away. Bitton continued to press and Bray played some great balls in behind the full back for Marsh and Bloomer to chase but they were being kept out with Helen Marsh the B&W skipper looking strong. With Price and Knight in good form at the back and Gallagher being very vocal Bitton were getting forward with numbers and it was only a matter of time before the opening goal came. It duly arrived on 20 minutes when Bloomer chased a lost cause on the right wing and managed to strip a defender of the ball before making ground, she then produced an excellent low cross to the far post that left Marsh with a simple tap in to give the Ton the lead. Price then won the ball on the half way line and played a defence splitting ball that set Bloomer free but her low shot was well saved by the keeper. Hulbert was having her best game of the season and working hard on the right wing and she produced some decent cross thatw ere just missed by the strikers B Jones then looked to play Marsh in but her through ball just struck the B&W defender as Marsh looked to be away. Bloomer had a strike over the bar before Bitton doubled the lead. Marsh picked the ball up 25yards out and wriggled past 2 defenders before playing a shot across the keeper which was heading in but Nat Hulbert who was following in arrived to apply the finish and make sure the ball crossed the line. A comfortable half for Bitton but they would be looking for more goals in the second half.
The 2nd half was more of the same with wave after wave of Bitton attacks. Bloomer was the first to test the keeper when she worked an angle on the edge of the box but the keeper got down well to save. Bray then produced a couple of corners that were begging to be headed in and Hulbert also knocked in some good deliveries. After a short corner was worked to L Jones her cross was helped back into the box by B Jones which found the head of Bloomer but once again she was denied by the overworked keeper. Bitton were lucky on 65 minutes as the hardworking Carla Thomas made ground into the box and she was brought crashing down with a clumsy looking challenge from riley which looked a definite penalty but the referee waved play on. Bloomer finally got her goal on the hour. Riley produced a long throw which saw Bloomer turn her marker and superbly volley home. Hulbert then did well on the wing and forced a good save once again from the keeper before another series of Bitton corners. Bloomer was then played in by B Jones
and as the keeper came rushing off her line she kicked Bloomer before falling to the floor with Bloomer staying on her feet before the danger was cleared. After the keeper received some treatment the Ref strangely awarded a free kick to B&W despite the keeper being the one that kicked Bloomer. Marsh then grabbed her 2nd and Bitton 4th when she pounced on some hesitant defending when the keeper and defender left the ball for each other and she superbly lofted the ball home. The scoring was complete on 80 minutes when Hulbert delivered a great cross which was met by marsh and her goal bound header was bundled into the net but sub Hosznyak to make it 5-0. There was still time for Bray to try her luck with a 40 yard volley. In the 88th minute B&W won their first corner of the came and it was met by Becky Billings who volleyed high over the bar for their only shot of the game. Bitton showed glimpses of their free flowing football and were dominant all game. The move onto next weeks GFA cup game against Bristol ladies Union
Player of the Match-Nat Hulbert- Hardworking performance capped with a goal
B&W star Player-Carla Thomas-Showed great skill and composure and worked right till the end
On a very wet and boggy pitch Bittton Dominated from the first whistle to last. B&W are always a tough nut to crack and solid at the back but Bitton were too strong for them today with B&W not even managing a shot until the 88th minute and even that was not on target. B&W decided to try and contain Bitton and went with 5 in midfield with just the 1 striker. This meant that Becky & Leanne Jones were often outnumbered in midfield but their hard work meant when they did receive the ball they were able to get it wide and with only 1 striker it meant both full backs Carly Bray and Chloe Riley were given the freedom to push forward and this was a feature of the whole game as Bitton used the wide areas very well. Becky Hurst started well with a few good runs down the left wing and the first chance of the game came after only 5 minutes when a perfect Bray corner was missed by everybody and saw Price with a free header only 6 yards out but she somehow managed to head it over. A few minutes later and Bray was breaking down the left and she hit a cross that nearly dropped in at the far post but the keeper just managed to claw the ball away. Bitton continued to press and Bray played some great balls in behind the full back for Marsh and Bloomer to chase but they were being kept out with Helen Marsh the B&W skipper looking strong. With Price and Knight in good form at the back and Gallagher being very vocal Bitton were getting forward with numbers and it was only a matter of time before the opening goal came. It duly arrived on 20 minutes when Bloomer chased a lost cause on the right wing and managed to strip a defender of the ball before making ground, she then produced an excellent low cross to the far post that left Marsh with a simple tap in to give the Ton the lead. Price then won the ball on the half way line and played a defence splitting ball that set Bloomer free but her low shot was well saved by the keeper. Hulbert was having her best game of the season and working hard on the right wing and she produced some decent cross thatw ere just missed by the strikers B Jones then looked to play Marsh in but her through ball just struck the B&W defender as Marsh looked to be away. Bloomer had a strike over the bar before Bitton doubled the lead. Marsh picked the ball up 25yards out and wriggled past 2 defenders before playing a shot across the keeper which was heading in but Nat Hulbert who was following in arrived to apply the finish and make sure the ball crossed the line. A comfortable half for Bitton but they would be looking for more goals in the second half.
The 2nd half was more of the same with wave after wave of Bitton attacks. Bloomer was the first to test the keeper when she worked an angle on the edge of the box but the keeper got down well to save. Bray then produced a couple of corners that were begging to be headed in and Hulbert also knocked in some good deliveries. After a short corner was worked to L Jones her cross was helped back into the box by B Jones which found the head of Bloomer but once again she was denied by the overworked keeper. Bitton were lucky on 65 minutes as the hardworking Carla Thomas made ground into the box and she was brought crashing down with a clumsy looking challenge from riley which looked a definite penalty but the referee waved play on. Bloomer finally got her goal on the hour. Riley produced a long throw which saw Bloomer turn her marker and superbly volley home. Hulbert then did well on the wing and forced a good save once again from the keeper before another series of Bitton corners. Bloomer was then played in by B Jones
and as the keeper came rushing off her line she kicked Bloomer before falling to the floor with Bloomer staying on her feet before the danger was cleared. After the keeper received some treatment the Ref strangely awarded a free kick to B&W despite the keeper being the one that kicked Bloomer. Marsh then grabbed her 2nd and Bitton 4th when she pounced on some hesitant defending when the keeper and defender left the ball for each other and she superbly lofted the ball home. The scoring was complete on 80 minutes when Hulbert delivered a great cross which was met by marsh and her goal bound header was bundled into the net but sub Hosznyak to make it 5-0. There was still time for Bray to try her luck with a 40 yard volley. In the 88th minute B&W won their first corner of the came and it was met by Becky Billings who volleyed high over the bar for their only shot of the game. Bitton showed glimpses of their free flowing football and were dominant all game. The move onto next weeks GFA cup game against Bristol ladies Union
Player of the Match-Nat Hulbert- Hardworking performance capped with a goal
B&W star Player-Carla Thomas-Showed great skill and composure and worked right till the end
Bitton 0-1 FOD
Bitton lost for the first time in the league this season as they failed to find the net and went down 1-0 to Forest of Dean. Bitton were missing the 2 strikers from last week as Megan Bloomer & Amber Coates were both away. Sarah Wilmer & Esther Hosynkak came into the starting line-up as Bitton were forced to move a few players around.
After last weeks good result Bitton seemed to be suprisingly flat and started slowly with sloppy passing and a slow tempo. The game was played in the midfield for most of the match with a good battle between the experienced Tara Rutter of Fod and Leanne Jones. Missing the pace of Bloomer & Coates Bitton were always going to find it difficult to break down the well organised Fod defence which was once again superbly marshalled by Emma Clutterbuck. Any time Bitton did seem to get in behind the FOD keeper Natasha Roberts was always quick off her line to clear the danger. The first real half chance came when a FOD free kick was played into the box and completely missed by Gallagher who was flapping, the ball bounced around the Bitton box but some good blocks by Doidge and Price meant Bitton cleared the danger. Bitton came within inches of breaking the deadlock when Bray hit a free kick from 25 yards which the keeper could not get but unfortunately it struck the top of the bar. Fod were playing a high line and looking to catch Bitton offside but a clever ball from Doidge saw B Jones breaking from deep and in on goal,her shot across goal was excellently saved by Roberts who also held onto the ball with Marsh looking to follow up the rebound. Hulbert was then played in by B Jones but was let down by a bad touch as she was clean in on goal. Amy Tandy then did well for FOD down the right and her good cross was met by Rutter but her volley was straight at Gallagher. Both teams had a few chances but the tight game went into the break goalless.
With most of the spectators still in the bar FOD scored what turned out to be the only goal of the game almost immediately after the restart. The FOD striker was allowed too much time to turn on the corner of the box and her weak shot found the corner as Gallagher allowed the ball to go past her by trying to kick it when a simple dive would have kept the ball out. The goal seemed to wake Bitton up and they were on top for most of the second half without really getting their passing game going. L Jones was first to try her luck but her long shot was pulled wide. FOD did catch Bitton on the break a few times but were restricted to only long range efforts which were dealt with by Gallagher. Wilmer then found herself free in the box but she hit a weak effort straight at Roberts. Bitton continued to pres hard and Bray wasted a few free kicks before a very controversial incident. The assistant from FOD raised his flag for offfside as Bitton broke free on goal when they were clearly being played on. The ref blew his whistle for the offence and straight away the assistant said sorry and admitted he had got it wrong. Too late now as the referee had stopped the game and denied Bitton a clear scoring chance. The Bitton players were furious and the frustration seemed to help their tempo as they went all out for an equaliser. The final 10 minutes was a Bitton onslaught on the FOD goal but no matter how hard they tried they could not find a way past the super Roberts who pulled of several great saves to deny Marsh on 3 occasions and also in the last minute to deny L Jones.
Bitton did not play well today and it was Fod who took the points to continue their 100% record. Over the course of the game Bitton deserved at least a draw but it was simply not their day. It is important the team stick together and look to bounce back next week when they travel to Bristol & West
Player of the Match-Becky Jones-One of the few Bitton players that seemed to be able to pass the ball
FOD Star Player-Natasha Roberts-Superb performance from the keeper who deserved her clean sheet
After last weeks good result Bitton seemed to be suprisingly flat and started slowly with sloppy passing and a slow tempo. The game was played in the midfield for most of the match with a good battle between the experienced Tara Rutter of Fod and Leanne Jones. Missing the pace of Bloomer & Coates Bitton were always going to find it difficult to break down the well organised Fod defence which was once again superbly marshalled by Emma Clutterbuck. Any time Bitton did seem to get in behind the FOD keeper Natasha Roberts was always quick off her line to clear the danger. The first real half chance came when a FOD free kick was played into the box and completely missed by Gallagher who was flapping, the ball bounced around the Bitton box but some good blocks by Doidge and Price meant Bitton cleared the danger. Bitton came within inches of breaking the deadlock when Bray hit a free kick from 25 yards which the keeper could not get but unfortunately it struck the top of the bar. Fod were playing a high line and looking to catch Bitton offside but a clever ball from Doidge saw B Jones breaking from deep and in on goal,her shot across goal was excellently saved by Roberts who also held onto the ball with Marsh looking to follow up the rebound. Hulbert was then played in by B Jones but was let down by a bad touch as she was clean in on goal. Amy Tandy then did well for FOD down the right and her good cross was met by Rutter but her volley was straight at Gallagher. Both teams had a few chances but the tight game went into the break goalless.
With most of the spectators still in the bar FOD scored what turned out to be the only goal of the game almost immediately after the restart. The FOD striker was allowed too much time to turn on the corner of the box and her weak shot found the corner as Gallagher allowed the ball to go past her by trying to kick it when a simple dive would have kept the ball out. The goal seemed to wake Bitton up and they were on top for most of the second half without really getting their passing game going. L Jones was first to try her luck but her long shot was pulled wide. FOD did catch Bitton on the break a few times but were restricted to only long range efforts which were dealt with by Gallagher. Wilmer then found herself free in the box but she hit a weak effort straight at Roberts. Bitton continued to pres hard and Bray wasted a few free kicks before a very controversial incident. The assistant from FOD raised his flag for offfside as Bitton broke free on goal when they were clearly being played on. The ref blew his whistle for the offence and straight away the assistant said sorry and admitted he had got it wrong. Too late now as the referee had stopped the game and denied Bitton a clear scoring chance. The Bitton players were furious and the frustration seemed to help their tempo as they went all out for an equaliser. The final 10 minutes was a Bitton onslaught on the FOD goal but no matter how hard they tried they could not find a way past the super Roberts who pulled of several great saves to deny Marsh on 3 occasions and also in the last minute to deny L Jones.
Bitton did not play well today and it was Fod who took the points to continue their 100% record. Over the course of the game Bitton deserved at least a draw but it was simply not their day. It is important the team stick together and look to bounce back next week when they travel to Bristol & West
Player of the Match-Becky Jones-One of the few Bitton players that seemed to be able to pass the ball
FOD Star Player-Natasha Roberts-Superb performance from the keeper who deserved her clean sheet
St Nicks 2-6 Bitton
Bloomer(2)
Marsh(2)
Bray
L Jones
Bitton travelled to St Nicks for this much anticipated clash between two of the leading sides in the division. Amber Coates, Sarah Doidge and Leanne Jones all came back into the starting line-up as Bitton reverted back to a 4-3-3 formation.
As was the case in last years cup final between the two sides Bitton seemed to give too much respect to St Nicks as they started the game looking very nervous. The First five minutes were one way traffic as St Nicks had plenty of the ball with Natalie Coles dominating the early stages, feeding Sophie Sweet, Becky Rexworthy and Amy Jefferies. Bitton were struggling to clear their lines as the home side were looking much sharper and were first to all the loose balls. Bitton had already cleared 2 corners when St Nicks took the lead on 5 minutes. Cydney Ramsey floated a corner in and the smallest player on the pitch Amy Jeffries rose unchallenged to power home a header into the top corner. Ruby Bagge was next to try her luck but her shot from 35yrds just drifted over with Gallagher struggling to get back. Meg Price made a few good challenges on Rexworthy as Bitton continued to look nervous but started to threaten at the other end as Meg Bloomer and Terri Marsh began to see a bit of the ball. Coates did well down the left hand side to deliver a good cross but St Nicks cleared their lines well.
Marsh had a great chance when she worked herself free on the left but she rushed her shot and ended up toe poking wide. Bitton were just creeping back into the game and starting to look very dangerous when they fell further behind. Sophie Sweet played a superb diagonal ball into the box and with Char Knight and Gallagher leaving the ball for each other Rexworthy nipped in to poke the ball home. After falling two goals behind Bitton finally seemed to get to grips with the game and began talking and looking a lot more organised. Sarah Doidge began to see a lot of the ball at right back and played a few dangerous balls in behind the St Nicks back Line. Bloomer came close on several occasions against her old club but she was being well marshalled by Jess Wilson and Rosie Harris and on the few occasions she broke free she was snatching at the ball as she hit a few tame shots straight at Nicks small keeper Sammi Hollis. Despite her height disadvantage Hollis was performing well and was always quick off her line to deny Bitton any clear chances. On 30 minutes Bloomer looked to be clear but as she was breaking towards the goal she was pulled down by Wilson. The referee deemed that their were covering defenders so only issued Wilson with a yellow. From the resulting free kick Carly 'I got' Bray hit her shot at the wall and the ball bounced nicely for B Jones but she opted to toe poke with her right foot instead of try her luck with her left and her shot hit the side netting. Jefferies of St Nicks then had to receive a bit of treatment after a hard but fair challenge from Price
Bitton pulled one back right on the stroke of half time as finally Marsh managed to get a clean strike on the ball and her effort form just inside the box flew past Hollis before she could move
Bitton continued to be wasteful in front of goal as the second half got underway as Bloomer had a few more chances one of which brought a great save from Hollis as she blocked the ball with her feet down at her near post. Amy Ford of St Nicks then showed some good defending to deny a number of Bitton players before seeming to suffer from an asthma attack as Bitton continued to apply pressure to the St Nicks back line. St Nicks nearly grabbed another as the impressive Coles came forward and hit a great effort with her left foot but the ball struck the bar and bounced down where Rexworthy dragged her shot wide. Bitton were trying hard to get back into the game but with St Nicks moving the classy Ruby Bagge back to defence they were looking to shut up shop and some great tackles by Wilson denied Bitton on a few occasions. Bitton made a tactical switch with Hosekneeache (after removing her bib;-) replacing Coates and almost immediately they got a reaction. They finally got back on level terms with 15 minutes remaining. B Jones picked up the ball and ran at the St Nicks backline, her weighted pass was straight into the path of Bloomer and her first time effort from the edge of the box whistled past Hollis. After waiting so long for a goal Bitton got their noses in front almost immediately as L Jones won a great tackle on the edge of her own box and beat a couple of St nicks players before playing a lovely curling ball into the right channel for Bloomer to chase. Despite starting 5 yards behind Harris, Bloomer galloped past her and hit a stunning strike from a tight angle that flew over Hollis into the top left corner and sparked some great celebrations from the Bitton players. St Nicks looked shocked and began to panic with some of their defending with Bitton having a couple of chances to go further ahead. The home side almost got back into the game with a slice of luck as Rexworthys mis-hit cross clipped the crossbar with Gallagher looking like she may have got a touch. St Nicks were pressing hard to get back into the game and had a period of pressure with a couple of Corners and free kicks that were all over hit. The game was effectively wrapped up in the 85th minute as St Nicks were undone with the most simple of route one goals to make it 4-2. Gallagher hit a goal kick that bounced in the midfield and was missed by everyone including the St Nicks defenders and Marsh was left clear in on goal. Bagge was trying to cover from left back but Marsh showed great pace and control to have a couple of touches and move into the box where she slotted the ball into the bottom right corner. The fourth goal seemed to be the cue for St Nicks to lose all discipline and almost immediately St Nicks keeper Sami Hollis was shown a straight Red card for raising her hands to B Jones. As the incident was in the box the Ref awarded the Penalty and Bray stepped up and confidently smashed the ball past stand in keeper Sweet. There was still time for Bitton to get a sixth as player of the match L Jones caught Sweet out of position as she hit a first time left volley from 30 yards that trickled into the corner.
After a very poor start Bitton got their act together to produce a great performance .They created numerous chances all afternoon and showed excellent fitness levels to come on so strong in the final 15 minutes against a team that is sure to be up there at the end of the season.
On now to a crucial week in the season which will se the top four all in action when Bitton host FOD and St Nicks travel to Cheltenham Civil service
Player of the match-Leanne Jones-Another all action display capped with a goal.
St Nicks Star player-Natalie Coles-Strong and fast and used the ball well, Kept going right to the end
As was the case in last years cup final between the two sides Bitton seemed to give too much respect to St Nicks as they started the game looking very nervous. The First five minutes were one way traffic as St Nicks had plenty of the ball with Natalie Coles dominating the early stages, feeding Sophie Sweet, Becky Rexworthy and Amy Jefferies. Bitton were struggling to clear their lines as the home side were looking much sharper and were first to all the loose balls. Bitton had already cleared 2 corners when St Nicks took the lead on 5 minutes. Cydney Ramsey floated a corner in and the smallest player on the pitch Amy Jeffries rose unchallenged to power home a header into the top corner. Ruby Bagge was next to try her luck but her shot from 35yrds just drifted over with Gallagher struggling to get back. Meg Price made a few good challenges on Rexworthy as Bitton continued to look nervous but started to threaten at the other end as Meg Bloomer and Terri Marsh began to see a bit of the ball. Coates did well down the left hand side to deliver a good cross but St Nicks cleared their lines well.
Marsh had a great chance when she worked herself free on the left but she rushed her shot and ended up toe poking wide. Bitton were just creeping back into the game and starting to look very dangerous when they fell further behind. Sophie Sweet played a superb diagonal ball into the box and with Char Knight and Gallagher leaving the ball for each other Rexworthy nipped in to poke the ball home. After falling two goals behind Bitton finally seemed to get to grips with the game and began talking and looking a lot more organised. Sarah Doidge began to see a lot of the ball at right back and played a few dangerous balls in behind the St Nicks back Line. Bloomer came close on several occasions against her old club but she was being well marshalled by Jess Wilson and Rosie Harris and on the few occasions she broke free she was snatching at the ball as she hit a few tame shots straight at Nicks small keeper Sammi Hollis. Despite her height disadvantage Hollis was performing well and was always quick off her line to deny Bitton any clear chances. On 30 minutes Bloomer looked to be clear but as she was breaking towards the goal she was pulled down by Wilson. The referee deemed that their were covering defenders so only issued Wilson with a yellow. From the resulting free kick Carly 'I got' Bray hit her shot at the wall and the ball bounced nicely for B Jones but she opted to toe poke with her right foot instead of try her luck with her left and her shot hit the side netting. Jefferies of St Nicks then had to receive a bit of treatment after a hard but fair challenge from Price
Bitton pulled one back right on the stroke of half time as finally Marsh managed to get a clean strike on the ball and her effort form just inside the box flew past Hollis before she could move
Bitton continued to be wasteful in front of goal as the second half got underway as Bloomer had a few more chances one of which brought a great save from Hollis as she blocked the ball with her feet down at her near post. Amy Ford of St Nicks then showed some good defending to deny a number of Bitton players before seeming to suffer from an asthma attack as Bitton continued to apply pressure to the St Nicks back line. St Nicks nearly grabbed another as the impressive Coles came forward and hit a great effort with her left foot but the ball struck the bar and bounced down where Rexworthy dragged her shot wide. Bitton were trying hard to get back into the game but with St Nicks moving the classy Ruby Bagge back to defence they were looking to shut up shop and some great tackles by Wilson denied Bitton on a few occasions. Bitton made a tactical switch with Hosekneeache (after removing her bib;-) replacing Coates and almost immediately they got a reaction. They finally got back on level terms with 15 minutes remaining. B Jones picked up the ball and ran at the St Nicks backline, her weighted pass was straight into the path of Bloomer and her first time effort from the edge of the box whistled past Hollis. After waiting so long for a goal Bitton got their noses in front almost immediately as L Jones won a great tackle on the edge of her own box and beat a couple of St nicks players before playing a lovely curling ball into the right channel for Bloomer to chase. Despite starting 5 yards behind Harris, Bloomer galloped past her and hit a stunning strike from a tight angle that flew over Hollis into the top left corner and sparked some great celebrations from the Bitton players. St Nicks looked shocked and began to panic with some of their defending with Bitton having a couple of chances to go further ahead. The home side almost got back into the game with a slice of luck as Rexworthys mis-hit cross clipped the crossbar with Gallagher looking like she may have got a touch. St Nicks were pressing hard to get back into the game and had a period of pressure with a couple of Corners and free kicks that were all over hit. The game was effectively wrapped up in the 85th minute as St Nicks were undone with the most simple of route one goals to make it 4-2. Gallagher hit a goal kick that bounced in the midfield and was missed by everyone including the St Nicks defenders and Marsh was left clear in on goal. Bagge was trying to cover from left back but Marsh showed great pace and control to have a couple of touches and move into the box where she slotted the ball into the bottom right corner. The fourth goal seemed to be the cue for St Nicks to lose all discipline and almost immediately St Nicks keeper Sami Hollis was shown a straight Red card for raising her hands to B Jones. As the incident was in the box the Ref awarded the Penalty and Bray stepped up and confidently smashed the ball past stand in keeper Sweet. There was still time for Bitton to get a sixth as player of the match L Jones caught Sweet out of position as she hit a first time left volley from 30 yards that trickled into the corner.
After a very poor start Bitton got their act together to produce a great performance .They created numerous chances all afternoon and showed excellent fitness levels to come on so strong in the final 15 minutes against a team that is sure to be up there at the end of the season.
On now to a crucial week in the season which will se the top four all in action when Bitton host FOD and St Nicks travel to Cheltenham Civil service
Player of the match-Leanne Jones-Another all action display capped with a goal.
St Nicks Star player-Natalie Coles-Strong and fast and used the ball well, Kept going right to the end
Bitton 0-4 Larkhall
Great Debut from Chloe Riley
It was FA cup day as Bitton welcomed Larkhall Ath to the Rec. Larkhall are one of the top teams in the area and are sitting at the top of the SWWFL with a 100% record. Bitton were under no illusions how tough the task would be and their cause was not helped by missing several key players including L Jones, Coates and Doidge.
Chloe Riley & Sarah Wilmer both came in for their first starts in a Bitton shirt and along with the rest of the squad put in a tremendous shift as Bitton worked their socks off to frustrate Larkhall. It was always going to be a tough afternoon and Larkhall had the majority of possession all game and most of it spent in the Bitton half but some stubborn defending and great team work meant Gallagher in the Bitton goal did not really have many saves to make. The Bitton defence of Riley, Price, Knight and Bray were being worked hard by the lively German and Walby but they coped superbly. Despite Larkhall being in control of the game with some neat crisp passing Bitton always looked a threat and on several occasions Bloomer and Marsh were close to getting away but some superb covering defending From Scrivens denied them- When Bloomer finally did break free the rushing keeper just managed to get something on it as Bloomer knocked it around her and the Larkhall defence scrambled it clear. Larkhall pressed for most of the first half and some great crosses into the box were dealt with by Bitton.Larkhall were being forced to shoot from distance but were struggling to hit the target and Gallagher was dealing with any that were. B Jones and Wilmer were putting in a real shift to shut down the Larks passing game and Hulbert was showing great energy down the right wing to get up and back. The closest Larkhall came was when a mis-hit cross seemed to be misjudged by Gallagher and with the keeper out of position the ball just dropped the wrong side of the far post.
The second half continued in a similar vein to the first With Larkhall having plenty of possession but not really getting in behind the Bitton defence. Bitton saw a bit more of the ball though and nearly took the lead as the Larkhall keeper misjudged a long Bray ball and it trickled just wide. Bitton were working so hard it was only a matter of time before they tired and as the half wore on a few mistakes began to creep in with a few mis-hit clearances and lack of concentration. To their credit Larkhall did not really show any frustration and continued to press with their passing game but they knew they were struggling to break down the Ton defence and had to call on substitute Cherly Baber on 70 minutes. The pacy former Bristol City & Team Bath player made an immediate impact as she began to run at the tired Bitton defence and after a period of pressure they finally got the breakthrough they needed. The deadlock was finally broken on 75 Mins when Hosynzak failed to clear her lines and it was that girl Baber who fired the ball past Gallagher. You could sense the relief from Larkhall from their celebration but Bitton did not let their heads drop and continued to battle but they looked out on their feet and an equaliser did not really look likely. With 10 minutes to go Bitton made a tactical change and pushed players forward in hope of grabbing something from the game. With Bitton pressing higher up the pitch they were left open at the back and were punished in the cruelsest of ways with 3 goals in the final 5 minutes. A cross from the left was headed in by Carly Bryant to make it 2-0 and then all hopes were dashed almost straight away as Player of the match Chloe Riley was adjudged to have pushed Kate German in the back for a very soft penalty. German confidently took the penalty and it was game over. In the last minute Larkhall grabbed a fourth with the goal of the game as Bryant controlled a right wing cross and fired the ball into the net off the post.
Larkhall are a very good side and we wish them well in the next round but they left the Rec knowing they had been in a game after a gritty performance from Bitton. Holding them for 75 minutes is a great achievement for Bitton and the final 4-0 scoreline was a bit harsh as the players in Red & white had worked so hard
Player of the match-Chloe Riley-Sound defensive display on her debut for the club
Larkhall Star player-Amy Scrivens-never put a foot wrong and looked a class act at left back
Chloe Riley & Sarah Wilmer both came in for their first starts in a Bitton shirt and along with the rest of the squad put in a tremendous shift as Bitton worked their socks off to frustrate Larkhall. It was always going to be a tough afternoon and Larkhall had the majority of possession all game and most of it spent in the Bitton half but some stubborn defending and great team work meant Gallagher in the Bitton goal did not really have many saves to make. The Bitton defence of Riley, Price, Knight and Bray were being worked hard by the lively German and Walby but they coped superbly. Despite Larkhall being in control of the game with some neat crisp passing Bitton always looked a threat and on several occasions Bloomer and Marsh were close to getting away but some superb covering defending From Scrivens denied them- When Bloomer finally did break free the rushing keeper just managed to get something on it as Bloomer knocked it around her and the Larkhall defence scrambled it clear. Larkhall pressed for most of the first half and some great crosses into the box were dealt with by Bitton.Larkhall were being forced to shoot from distance but were struggling to hit the target and Gallagher was dealing with any that were. B Jones and Wilmer were putting in a real shift to shut down the Larks passing game and Hulbert was showing great energy down the right wing to get up and back. The closest Larkhall came was when a mis-hit cross seemed to be misjudged by Gallagher and with the keeper out of position the ball just dropped the wrong side of the far post.
The second half continued in a similar vein to the first With Larkhall having plenty of possession but not really getting in behind the Bitton defence. Bitton saw a bit more of the ball though and nearly took the lead as the Larkhall keeper misjudged a long Bray ball and it trickled just wide. Bitton were working so hard it was only a matter of time before they tired and as the half wore on a few mistakes began to creep in with a few mis-hit clearances and lack of concentration. To their credit Larkhall did not really show any frustration and continued to press with their passing game but they knew they were struggling to break down the Ton defence and had to call on substitute Cherly Baber on 70 minutes. The pacy former Bristol City & Team Bath player made an immediate impact as she began to run at the tired Bitton defence and after a period of pressure they finally got the breakthrough they needed. The deadlock was finally broken on 75 Mins when Hosynzak failed to clear her lines and it was that girl Baber who fired the ball past Gallagher. You could sense the relief from Larkhall from their celebration but Bitton did not let their heads drop and continued to battle but they looked out on their feet and an equaliser did not really look likely. With 10 minutes to go Bitton made a tactical change and pushed players forward in hope of grabbing something from the game. With Bitton pressing higher up the pitch they were left open at the back and were punished in the cruelsest of ways with 3 goals in the final 5 minutes. A cross from the left was headed in by Carly Bryant to make it 2-0 and then all hopes were dashed almost straight away as Player of the match Chloe Riley was adjudged to have pushed Kate German in the back for a very soft penalty. German confidently took the penalty and it was game over. In the last minute Larkhall grabbed a fourth with the goal of the game as Bryant controlled a right wing cross and fired the ball into the net off the post.
Larkhall are a very good side and we wish them well in the next round but they left the Rec knowing they had been in a game after a gritty performance from Bitton. Holding them for 75 minutes is a great achievement for Bitton and the final 4-0 scoreline was a bit harsh as the players in Red & white had worked so hard
Player of the match-Chloe Riley-Sound defensive display on her debut for the club
Larkhall Star player-Amy Scrivens-never put a foot wrong and looked a class act at left back
Forest Of Dean 1-5 Bitton
Bloomer(2)
Marsh
Bray
B Jones
Bitton produced a great performance to progress to the next round of the GFA Cup with a convincing 5-1 win against a very good strong FOD Side.
With Amber Coates missing Bitton reverted back to a 4-4-2 with Sarah Doidge slotting into the defence on her debut.
After a disatorous pre match where several players and the manager got lost, meaning their was no kit, the game eventually kicked off 10 mins late with no warm up for the Bitton players. Fod started quite brightly and were looking strong with the big Rutter and Clutterbuck in central defence looking to rough up the Bitton strikers with a few hard but fair challenges. As is usually the case against Fod the main threat was coming from Sam Morse who showed tremendous pace and was usually occupied by several Bitton defenders. After enjoying most of the ball early on Fod were caught on the counter attack as Bitton took the lead after Bray played a through ball to Marsh and she just beat the keeper to the ball to fire it home. The goal seemed to lift Bitton and they began to get their passing game going with Price and Knight taking care of Morse it allowed Doidge and Bray to get forward from full back and link up with the midfield. The Joners were linking up in midfield again and looking to supply the front two of Marsh and Bloomer who were causing lots of problems with clever movement.There was a brief scare on 20 mins as a ball into the Bitton defence saw Rutter turn and fire home but the Bitton back line had stepped up well and she was flagged offside. Anothere strong challenge from Rutter on Bloomer about 40 yards was penalised and with everybody expecting a ball into the box Bray stepped up and rifled home and unstoppable driven free kick that flew into the net without the keeper even moving for surely an early goal of the season contender. Bitton were now looking good and an excellent corner from Bray was just missed at the far post by Bloomer as she looked to get on the score sheet. Fod were still looking a threat with the pace upfront but Bitton were putting their bodies on the line and several great blocks thwarted Fod.Rutter was lucky to escape a sending off or at least a booking on 35mins as she came across and took out Marsh as she was bearing down on goal and completely wiped her out. She was the last player but the referee used some common sense and decided to just give her a final warning. Bitton made it 3-0 just before half time as L Jones mis hit shot rebounded back to B Jones on the edge of the box and her first time volley sailed over the keepers head into the top corner
Fod changed their tactics in the second half moving Rutter into midfield to try and gain control of the game and pin Bitton back. for the first 20 mins it was mostly Fod who had possesion as Bitton struggled to maintain the standard of the passing from the first half. Despite plenty of possesion from Fod they rarely threatened the Bitton goal as the back four continued to look for a clean sheet. There was appeals for a penalty as a cross into the box was volleyed towards goal, as Bray came across to make a block the ball struck her but the referee waved play on as ball to hand. Both Bloomer and Marsh were looking to add to the goals tally but they were denied on several occasions by the offside flag. Hulbert was then inches away from connecting with a Hurst cross but the keepr was quick off her line to smother the ball.Bitton then made a couple of changes with Wilmer and Hoznehack replacing Hurst and B Jones. Hoz was straight into the action and released Bloomer but again she was denied by the flag. Fod finally broke the Bitton rearguard when the ball dropped to Morse in the box and she fired home to spark hopes of a comeback for the home side.If anything the goal seemed to give Bitton a lift and they started to move forward with purpose again and Tandy at the back for Fod had to be alert on a few occasions to deny Bitton. Bloomer finally got the goal she had deserevd when she was played in by Marsh and she drilled the ball low and hard into the bottom corner to make it 4-1. Almost immediately it was 5 when Bloomer charged down the keeper and her clearance struck Bloomer on the thigh and flew into the net. Bitton made one final change with hall replacing Hulbert as they ke[pt the ball for the final minutes to see the game out.
A good all round performance from Bitton as they advance to the next round where they will play Bristol Ladies Union.
Player of the Match-Carly Bray-Wondefull goal and another impressive performance from the full back.
FOD Star Player-Emma Clutterbuck-Strong defensive display
With Amber Coates missing Bitton reverted back to a 4-4-2 with Sarah Doidge slotting into the defence on her debut.
After a disatorous pre match where several players and the manager got lost, meaning their was no kit, the game eventually kicked off 10 mins late with no warm up for the Bitton players. Fod started quite brightly and were looking strong with the big Rutter and Clutterbuck in central defence looking to rough up the Bitton strikers with a few hard but fair challenges. As is usually the case against Fod the main threat was coming from Sam Morse who showed tremendous pace and was usually occupied by several Bitton defenders. After enjoying most of the ball early on Fod were caught on the counter attack as Bitton took the lead after Bray played a through ball to Marsh and she just beat the keeper to the ball to fire it home. The goal seemed to lift Bitton and they began to get their passing game going with Price and Knight taking care of Morse it allowed Doidge and Bray to get forward from full back and link up with the midfield. The Joners were linking up in midfield again and looking to supply the front two of Marsh and Bloomer who were causing lots of problems with clever movement.There was a brief scare on 20 mins as a ball into the Bitton defence saw Rutter turn and fire home but the Bitton back line had stepped up well and she was flagged offside. Anothere strong challenge from Rutter on Bloomer about 40 yards was penalised and with everybody expecting a ball into the box Bray stepped up and rifled home and unstoppable driven free kick that flew into the net without the keeper even moving for surely an early goal of the season contender. Bitton were now looking good and an excellent corner from Bray was just missed at the far post by Bloomer as she looked to get on the score sheet. Fod were still looking a threat with the pace upfront but Bitton were putting their bodies on the line and several great blocks thwarted Fod.Rutter was lucky to escape a sending off or at least a booking on 35mins as she came across and took out Marsh as she was bearing down on goal and completely wiped her out. She was the last player but the referee used some common sense and decided to just give her a final warning. Bitton made it 3-0 just before half time as L Jones mis hit shot rebounded back to B Jones on the edge of the box and her first time volley sailed over the keepers head into the top corner
Fod changed their tactics in the second half moving Rutter into midfield to try and gain control of the game and pin Bitton back. for the first 20 mins it was mostly Fod who had possesion as Bitton struggled to maintain the standard of the passing from the first half. Despite plenty of possesion from Fod they rarely threatened the Bitton goal as the back four continued to look for a clean sheet. There was appeals for a penalty as a cross into the box was volleyed towards goal, as Bray came across to make a block the ball struck her but the referee waved play on as ball to hand. Both Bloomer and Marsh were looking to add to the goals tally but they were denied on several occasions by the offside flag. Hulbert was then inches away from connecting with a Hurst cross but the keepr was quick off her line to smother the ball.Bitton then made a couple of changes with Wilmer and Hoznehack replacing Hurst and B Jones. Hoz was straight into the action and released Bloomer but again she was denied by the flag. Fod finally broke the Bitton rearguard when the ball dropped to Morse in the box and she fired home to spark hopes of a comeback for the home side.If anything the goal seemed to give Bitton a lift and they started to move forward with purpose again and Tandy at the back for Fod had to be alert on a few occasions to deny Bitton. Bloomer finally got the goal she had deserevd when she was played in by Marsh and she drilled the ball low and hard into the bottom corner to make it 4-1. Almost immediately it was 5 when Bloomer charged down the keeper and her clearance struck Bloomer on the thigh and flew into the net. Bitton made one final change with hall replacing Hulbert as they ke[pt the ball for the final minutes to see the game out.
A good all round performance from Bitton as they advance to the next round where they will play Bristol Ladies Union.
Player of the Match-Carly Bray-Wondefull goal and another impressive performance from the full back.
FOD Star Player-Emma Clutterbuck-Strong defensive display
Bitton 4-1 AEK Boco
Marsh(2)
Coates
L Jones
On a sweltering day Bitton produced a solid performance to beat AEK Boco 4-1 and progress to the next round of the FA Womens cup.
Chloe Gallagher returned in goal in the only change to the previous game at Dursley and Bitton had the luxury of being able to field 5 subs for the first time in their history.
Bitton started the game well with some neat passing and Marsh and Bloomer were both denied by some excellent last ditch challenges when it looked like they were free. Bloomer then did well to wriggle past two defenders but just as she was about to shoot the covering defender got a block in. Bitton were looking for an early goal and they didn’t have to wait long. B Jones lofted a ball over her shoulder into the box and under no pressure the Boco keeper spilled the high ball, Marsh was quickest to react and she fired the ball home in of the underside of the bar. The goal settled Bitton and they started to enjoy good possession but they became a little over confident at times and Boco were looking to break quickly. Ferris did well down the right to get past Hosyniak but was snuffed out by an excellent challenge from Bray. Burge was next to threaten for Boco who were starting to come back into it as she hit a shot from 30 yards but Gallagher had it covered. Bitton were enjoying possession of the ball and using the wide players Hulbert and Hoszzzzznyak well. Coates did well to skip past her marker wide on the right but nobody could get on the end of her cross. It was all Bitton but Boco were looking a slight threat on the break but were being restricted to long efforts by the excellent defence of Gallagher, Knight, Bray and Price. Boco were offered some hope with a free kick 25 yards out but Dinham sent her shot way wide. Bitton double their advantage midway through the half as Knight picked up the ball on the half way line and sent a defence splitting pass over the top and Marsh galloped onto the ball before firing it across the keeper and in off the post. Once again Bray knocked in some superb Corners and Bitton were close to connecting on several occasions but they could not quite get on the end of it. It looked like Boco would pull one back as Burge was released down the right side and closed in on goal but from out of nowhere Knight came across to make a great interception and clear the danger. With B Jones & L Jones continuing to pass the ball around in the middle and Marsh linking play up well with some intelligent movement Bitton pressed for a third. Bloomer had to leave the pitch as she was unwell and while Bitton were down to 10 they finally manager to grab another. B Jones picked the ball up in her own half and made ground before hitting a sensational 60yard driven ball right into the path of the onrushing Coates who took one touch and drilled the ball past the keeper for her first goal of the season. A great first half of football in the heat from Bitton, who would look to press home their advantage in the second half.
The second half started with Boco playing with a bit more purpose and starting to knock the ball around a bit better. The introduction of Miller seemed to give them more of a threat and she nearly got in behind the Bitton defence but Gallagher was quick off her line to clear. Bitton then removed the hangover suffering Bloomer and replaced her with new signing Sarah Wilmer.Bitton continued to press as Coates skipped past Harris on the left before cutting the ball back to Marsh who showed great skill to move the ball and finish well but she was denied her hat-trick by the offside flag. Marsh then skipped past several challenges as she seemed to be tormenting the Boco defence all on her own but her final ball let her down. The pace of the game visibly slowed as the heat began to take its toll but Marsh still looked full of energy as she robbed a Boco player and cut into the box, as the covering defender ran across she clipped Marsh on the ankle and the referee pointed to the spot. Regular penalty taker Bray stepped up but she joined the Hall of fame of Bitton players to sky a penalty by striking the ball way over the bar just falling short of the railway tracks much to the amusement of the Boco bench. Burge then released Miller over the top of a static Bitton defence and with Senorita Galliano (probably dreaming of Miguel) doing her trademark hesitating on her line Miller was always favourite. Gallagher came out and clattered her for a definite penalty but despite her being the last player and Miller looking certain to score the referee only produced a yellow card. Dinham stepped up and fired home the penalty as uncertainty began to creep in to the Bitton game. With 10 minutes left Bitton were expecting an onslaught from Boco but it never came and Bitton continued to dominate possession. Hosnesack was replaced by Hurst and she nearly got in down the left hand side straight away but was snuffed out by a covering defender. Bray then made up for her penalty miss with yet another world class delivery from a corner and as once again the keeper completely missed the ball and L Jones was on hand to fire the ball in from close range for a good solid 4-1 win and progression to the next round
Bitton will now host Larkhall Ath Sun 23rd Oct in the next round
Player of the match-Terri Marsh- Another two well taken goals and great all round display
Boco Star Player-Evie Willis-Some great defending
Chloe Gallagher returned in goal in the only change to the previous game at Dursley and Bitton had the luxury of being able to field 5 subs for the first time in their history.
Bitton started the game well with some neat passing and Marsh and Bloomer were both denied by some excellent last ditch challenges when it looked like they were free. Bloomer then did well to wriggle past two defenders but just as she was about to shoot the covering defender got a block in. Bitton were looking for an early goal and they didn’t have to wait long. B Jones lofted a ball over her shoulder into the box and under no pressure the Boco keeper spilled the high ball, Marsh was quickest to react and she fired the ball home in of the underside of the bar. The goal settled Bitton and they started to enjoy good possession but they became a little over confident at times and Boco were looking to break quickly. Ferris did well down the right to get past Hosyniak but was snuffed out by an excellent challenge from Bray. Burge was next to threaten for Boco who were starting to come back into it as she hit a shot from 30 yards but Gallagher had it covered. Bitton were enjoying possession of the ball and using the wide players Hulbert and Hoszzzzznyak well. Coates did well to skip past her marker wide on the right but nobody could get on the end of her cross. It was all Bitton but Boco were looking a slight threat on the break but were being restricted to long efforts by the excellent defence of Gallagher, Knight, Bray and Price. Boco were offered some hope with a free kick 25 yards out but Dinham sent her shot way wide. Bitton double their advantage midway through the half as Knight picked up the ball on the half way line and sent a defence splitting pass over the top and Marsh galloped onto the ball before firing it across the keeper and in off the post. Once again Bray knocked in some superb Corners and Bitton were close to connecting on several occasions but they could not quite get on the end of it. It looked like Boco would pull one back as Burge was released down the right side and closed in on goal but from out of nowhere Knight came across to make a great interception and clear the danger. With B Jones & L Jones continuing to pass the ball around in the middle and Marsh linking play up well with some intelligent movement Bitton pressed for a third. Bloomer had to leave the pitch as she was unwell and while Bitton were down to 10 they finally manager to grab another. B Jones picked the ball up in her own half and made ground before hitting a sensational 60yard driven ball right into the path of the onrushing Coates who took one touch and drilled the ball past the keeper for her first goal of the season. A great first half of football in the heat from Bitton, who would look to press home their advantage in the second half.
The second half started with Boco playing with a bit more purpose and starting to knock the ball around a bit better. The introduction of Miller seemed to give them more of a threat and she nearly got in behind the Bitton defence but Gallagher was quick off her line to clear. Bitton then removed the hangover suffering Bloomer and replaced her with new signing Sarah Wilmer.Bitton continued to press as Coates skipped past Harris on the left before cutting the ball back to Marsh who showed great skill to move the ball and finish well but she was denied her hat-trick by the offside flag. Marsh then skipped past several challenges as she seemed to be tormenting the Boco defence all on her own but her final ball let her down. The pace of the game visibly slowed as the heat began to take its toll but Marsh still looked full of energy as she robbed a Boco player and cut into the box, as the covering defender ran across she clipped Marsh on the ankle and the referee pointed to the spot. Regular penalty taker Bray stepped up but she joined the Hall of fame of Bitton players to sky a penalty by striking the ball way over the bar just falling short of the railway tracks much to the amusement of the Boco bench. Burge then released Miller over the top of a static Bitton defence and with Senorita Galliano (probably dreaming of Miguel) doing her trademark hesitating on her line Miller was always favourite. Gallagher came out and clattered her for a definite penalty but despite her being the last player and Miller looking certain to score the referee only produced a yellow card. Dinham stepped up and fired home the penalty as uncertainty began to creep in to the Bitton game. With 10 minutes left Bitton were expecting an onslaught from Boco but it never came and Bitton continued to dominate possession. Hosnesack was replaced by Hurst and she nearly got in down the left hand side straight away but was snuffed out by a covering defender. Bray then made up for her penalty miss with yet another world class delivery from a corner and as once again the keeper completely missed the ball and L Jones was on hand to fire the ball in from close range for a good solid 4-1 win and progression to the next round
Bitton will now host Larkhall Ath Sun 23rd Oct in the next round
Player of the match-Terri Marsh- Another two well taken goals and great all round display
Boco Star Player-Evie Willis-Some great defending
Dursley 0-6 Bitton
Bloomer(2)
Marsh(2)
Hosynzak(2)
After the disappointment of last weeks game against Cheltenham Spa getting called off Bitton finally got their season underway with a convincing 6-0 victory over Dursley. If it wasn’t for some very strange offside decisions,great goalkeeping and some wastefull finishing from Bitton to scoreline could have been far greater as Bitton dominated the game from start to finish.
Bitton suffered a number of late withdrawls from the squad on the morning of the game which meant they were only able to field one sub. Becky Hall donned the gloves on her debut in the absence of Chloe Gallagher and Megan Bloomer & Terri Marsh both made their first starts for the club up front.
After a heavy downpour before the game the pitch was very slick with the ball becoming very difficult to control but Bitton started on the front foot. A feature of the game was the offside flag with a few occasions being justified and a few close calls but there were also a few occasions when the Bitton player was clearly onside and play was called back by the ref for a flag from his assistant. One of these occasions saw Bloomer denied a debut goal as she slotted home from the edge of the box. L Jones was next to threaten and had several long range efforts but failed to hit the target. Another obstacle Bitton faced was the Dursley keeper as once again Jodie Turl proved why she is probably the top keeper in the league with a string of fine saves as well as commanding her area to thwart any danger. She came rushing out at the feet of Marsh and Coates on several occasions as it looked like they would get a shot away. Dursley were next to threaten as Bray was penalised for a tackle on the edge of the box and a shot was stuck into the top corner but Hall in goal somehow managed to get fingertips to it to tip the ball over. Bitton scored their first goal of the season midway through the first half as Bloomer made ground into the box but her shot was saved by Turl with the rebound falling straight to the feet of Marsh who made no mistake. Bitton had several more attempts from Hosynzak,Coates and Marsh but some poor finishing meant they went into the break only 1-0 up.
Despite dominating the game and creating lots of chances in the first half Bitton looked rusty and came out in the second half looking to put things right. They produced a much more slick passing game and carved the tired looking Dursley defence open on many occasions. A few more missed chances came before they finally got the vital 2nd when Bloomer cut in from the right and beat Turl at her near post. Almost immediately Marsh got her 2nd and Bittons 3rd as she broke clear to calmly roll past the keeper. Bitton were now in total control and B Jones & L Jones were linking up really well in central midfield with some great passing that was creating numerous chances. As usual Bray was knocking in some 1st class deliveries from corners and Finally one of them brought a goal as Bitton got the 4th as Hosynzak arrived at the far post to power home a header. Coates then had a couple of efforts well saved before Turl did brilliantly to deal with a few dangerous crosses from Hulbert. The goal of the game came on 75mins as Bloomer collected the ball about 35 yards out and unleashed an unstoppable strike that whistled past the Dursley keeper and crashed in off the bar. All the play was now in the Dursley half with the home teams only shot of the second half coming when Kirsty Turl tried her luck from 25yards but the shot drifted just wide. Bitton were looking to increase the lead but were sometimes choosing the wrong option when well placed. Eventually the 6th and final goal game as Hozynzak capped a great performance when she met a cross from the left to volley home with Marsh right behind her waiting to strike for her hat trick.
A opening win for Bitton but there is surely more to come from this side once they start to gel as a team.
Player of the Match-Esther Hosynzak- Carried on her good pre season form with 2 goals in a good display
Dursley star player-Jodie Turl-kept the score down with agreat display in goal
Bitton suffered a number of late withdrawls from the squad on the morning of the game which meant they were only able to field one sub. Becky Hall donned the gloves on her debut in the absence of Chloe Gallagher and Megan Bloomer & Terri Marsh both made their first starts for the club up front.
After a heavy downpour before the game the pitch was very slick with the ball becoming very difficult to control but Bitton started on the front foot. A feature of the game was the offside flag with a few occasions being justified and a few close calls but there were also a few occasions when the Bitton player was clearly onside and play was called back by the ref for a flag from his assistant. One of these occasions saw Bloomer denied a debut goal as she slotted home from the edge of the box. L Jones was next to threaten and had several long range efforts but failed to hit the target. Another obstacle Bitton faced was the Dursley keeper as once again Jodie Turl proved why she is probably the top keeper in the league with a string of fine saves as well as commanding her area to thwart any danger. She came rushing out at the feet of Marsh and Coates on several occasions as it looked like they would get a shot away. Dursley were next to threaten as Bray was penalised for a tackle on the edge of the box and a shot was stuck into the top corner but Hall in goal somehow managed to get fingertips to it to tip the ball over. Bitton scored their first goal of the season midway through the first half as Bloomer made ground into the box but her shot was saved by Turl with the rebound falling straight to the feet of Marsh who made no mistake. Bitton had several more attempts from Hosynzak,Coates and Marsh but some poor finishing meant they went into the break only 1-0 up.
Despite dominating the game and creating lots of chances in the first half Bitton looked rusty and came out in the second half looking to put things right. They produced a much more slick passing game and carved the tired looking Dursley defence open on many occasions. A few more missed chances came before they finally got the vital 2nd when Bloomer cut in from the right and beat Turl at her near post. Almost immediately Marsh got her 2nd and Bittons 3rd as she broke clear to calmly roll past the keeper. Bitton were now in total control and B Jones & L Jones were linking up really well in central midfield with some great passing that was creating numerous chances. As usual Bray was knocking in some 1st class deliveries from corners and Finally one of them brought a goal as Bitton got the 4th as Hosynzak arrived at the far post to power home a header. Coates then had a couple of efforts well saved before Turl did brilliantly to deal with a few dangerous crosses from Hulbert. The goal of the game came on 75mins as Bloomer collected the ball about 35 yards out and unleashed an unstoppable strike that whistled past the Dursley keeper and crashed in off the bar. All the play was now in the Dursley half with the home teams only shot of the second half coming when Kirsty Turl tried her luck from 25yards but the shot drifted just wide. Bitton were looking to increase the lead but were sometimes choosing the wrong option when well placed. Eventually the 6th and final goal game as Hozynzak capped a great performance when she met a cross from the left to volley home with Marsh right behind her waiting to strike for her hat trick.
A opening win for Bitton but there is surely more to come from this side once they start to gel as a team.
Player of the Match-Esther Hosynzak- Carried on her good pre season form with 2 goals in a good display
Dursley star player-Jodie Turl-kept the score down with agreat display in goal
2010/2011 Season
St Nicholas 1-0 Bitton
After the dissapointment of last years single goal cup final defeat Bitton were looking to turn the tables and pick up some silverware but they faced a very good St Nicholas side who had stormed to the division 2 title with a 100% record.Bitton were slightly boosted by the news that St nicks would have a few players missing and only having 11 availiable. They were also forced to play one of the better players Sophie Sweet in goal but in truth Bittobn rarely tested Sweet and when they did she performed superbly well making one superb save.
Bitton in contrast were able to name 3 subs for the first time this season.Gallagher started in goal with the usual back 3 of Price,Knight and Scrase. The 5 across midfield were Hulbert,Tugwell,Bray,Jones & Hosznyak with Coates & Rudge-Hamlin up front.On the bench for Bitton were James,Fox and Golbourne
Despite always being in the game Bitton really did not deserve any thing from the game as St Nicks seemed to want it more and from the first minute and won more tackles, headers and seemed quickest to the loose ball. They had several stand out performers on the day with Natalie Coles, Ruby Bagge Cydney Ramsey,Adelle Hooper all having excellent games where has all of the Bitton players underperformed.
The game started with mainly a midfield battle with neither side managing to really get hold of the ball and play any football. St Nicks knocked a couple of decent corners in but with no real threat.St nicks did have the ball in the back of the net on 15 minutes through Amy Jefferies but the play was pulled back for a foul on a Bitton player. Everything Bitton were trying was failing to come off and they were struggling to retain any possession time and again giving the ball away and their delivery from fee kicks and corners was also very poor. Despite being on top St Nicks were still not creating any clear chances and it was a massive bit of good fortune which presented them with what turned out to be the only goal of the game. The ball rolled to Price and as she cleared the ball it struck St Nicks top scorer Becky Rexworthy full in the chest and the ball could have bounced anywhere but it fell perfectly for the striker who was presented with a simple chance and she drilled the ball past the helpless Gallagher who was rooted to her line. With 10 minutes of the half to play Bitton finally managed to put a few passes together and began to briefly get on top. Just before the break Bitton were presented with the best chance of the game as a ball over the top was latched onto by Coates who showed good pace to get away from Coles and Harris the 2 centre back of St Nicks. But as she went to strike the ball it hit a bobble and she shot over as the defenders came running back to put her under pressure.
Bitton started the 2nd half with a lot more purpose and managed to pin St Nicks back for the first 15 minutes forcing several corners and started to show the sort of form that got them to the final in the first place. They managed to create the best chance of the entire game and it may have changed the shape of the game if it was converted but as Coates again went clear of the defence she hit her shot low to the corner when from nowhere the stand in keeper Sweet stretched out her leg and forced the ball wide for a corner. This was a definite turning point as Bitton were on top at this stage but after St Nicks cleared the resultant corner they never really truly threatened again. 10 minutes later a great run and cross saw Hulbert inches away from getting a shot away but St Nicks were now looking to add a second goal. Jeffries, Rexworthy and Hooper all had decent chances which they wasted and Price, Scrase and Gallagher were all called upon to block efforts from the lively St Nicks attack. Ramsay then hit a couple of long range free kicks with Gallagher tipping one over and the other smashing against the bar before being cleared to safety.In the end the game was killed of by some time wasting from St Nicks captain Bagge and Bitton were left feeling they had once again underferormed on their big day.
It must be remembered though Bitton were close to folding at xmas and the players that stuck around showed tremendous spirit and teamwork to even get to the final in the first place.Hopefully they can stay together next year and come back for another try.
Bitton in contrast were able to name 3 subs for the first time this season.Gallagher started in goal with the usual back 3 of Price,Knight and Scrase. The 5 across midfield were Hulbert,Tugwell,Bray,Jones & Hosznyak with Coates & Rudge-Hamlin up front.On the bench for Bitton were James,Fox and Golbourne
Despite always being in the game Bitton really did not deserve any thing from the game as St Nicks seemed to want it more and from the first minute and won more tackles, headers and seemed quickest to the loose ball. They had several stand out performers on the day with Natalie Coles, Ruby Bagge Cydney Ramsey,Adelle Hooper all having excellent games where has all of the Bitton players underperformed.
The game started with mainly a midfield battle with neither side managing to really get hold of the ball and play any football. St Nicks knocked a couple of decent corners in but with no real threat.St nicks did have the ball in the back of the net on 15 minutes through Amy Jefferies but the play was pulled back for a foul on a Bitton player. Everything Bitton were trying was failing to come off and they were struggling to retain any possession time and again giving the ball away and their delivery from fee kicks and corners was also very poor. Despite being on top St Nicks were still not creating any clear chances and it was a massive bit of good fortune which presented them with what turned out to be the only goal of the game. The ball rolled to Price and as she cleared the ball it struck St Nicks top scorer Becky Rexworthy full in the chest and the ball could have bounced anywhere but it fell perfectly for the striker who was presented with a simple chance and she drilled the ball past the helpless Gallagher who was rooted to her line. With 10 minutes of the half to play Bitton finally managed to put a few passes together and began to briefly get on top. Just before the break Bitton were presented with the best chance of the game as a ball over the top was latched onto by Coates who showed good pace to get away from Coles and Harris the 2 centre back of St Nicks. But as she went to strike the ball it hit a bobble and she shot over as the defenders came running back to put her under pressure.
Bitton started the 2nd half with a lot more purpose and managed to pin St Nicks back for the first 15 minutes forcing several corners and started to show the sort of form that got them to the final in the first place. They managed to create the best chance of the entire game and it may have changed the shape of the game if it was converted but as Coates again went clear of the defence she hit her shot low to the corner when from nowhere the stand in keeper Sweet stretched out her leg and forced the ball wide for a corner. This was a definite turning point as Bitton were on top at this stage but after St Nicks cleared the resultant corner they never really truly threatened again. 10 minutes later a great run and cross saw Hulbert inches away from getting a shot away but St Nicks were now looking to add a second goal. Jeffries, Rexworthy and Hooper all had decent chances which they wasted and Price, Scrase and Gallagher were all called upon to block efforts from the lively St Nicks attack. Ramsay then hit a couple of long range free kicks with Gallagher tipping one over and the other smashing against the bar before being cleared to safety.In the end the game was killed of by some time wasting from St Nicks captain Bagge and Bitton were left feeling they had once again underferormed on their big day.
It must be remembered though Bitton were close to folding at xmas and the players that stuck around showed tremendous spirit and teamwork to even get to the final in the first place.Hopefully they can stay together next year and come back for another try.
Cam 0-0 Bitton(AET) Bitton win 3-1 On pens
Robyn scored 1st Pen
Bitton are through to the League cup final for the 2nd year running after a tense penalty shootout victory over Cam Bulldogs. After 120 mins of football failed to see either side break the deadlock it was Bitton who came through the shootout to book their place in the final v St Nicholas on May 1st.
Once again Bitton were let down by several individuals who cried off on the morning of the game and had to play the entire game with 10 players one of which was Holly Fox who has not played for over a year. Carly Bray moved back into defence to cover for the absent Char Knight and Fox started in central midfield alongside Leanne Jones as Bitton started with a 3-4-2 formation.
On the hottest day of the year and on a bumpy pitch it was always going to be a tough ask for the 10 players of Bitton but they produced a performance full of work rate, desire and team spirit to eventually grind out a win against the previously unbeaten division 1 champions.
Bitton started the game well and Fox and Jones looked up for it as they put in a few crunching tackles. The Bitton back 3 of Scrase, Price and Bray were keeping a close eye on the dangerous Cam forward line of Rickarby and Brown as Bitton looked to soak up the Pressure and hit on the counter attack. Cam had the first good chance of the game when a long free kick was left by the Bitton defence and a Cam player headed over from 6 yards. Leanne Jones then tested the keeper from 25 yards with a dipping volley and Coates did well to get a shot away but it was straight at the keeper .Hulbert then had to leave the field for several minutes to receive treatment to a back injury but Bitton battled on with only 9 players. As in the previous two meetings this season the game was keenly contested in midfield with both defences looking very strong and minimal goalmouth action. Fox then picked up a harsh booking for a late tackle, her first mistimed tackle of the day as the half concluded with play in the midfield as it had been for most of the game so far.
The Bitton players looked exhausted at half time but they were sent out with instructions of keep it up for the next 45 and see what happens. The sun was really starting to take its toll on some players. The 2nd half was almost identical to the 1st with both teams probing but struggling against 2 excellent defences. With tired legs all over the pitch plenty of gaps started to appear and Coates broke free on goal but her attempted lob drifted just wide and then a fast break from Cam saw the ball fall to rickarby but her volley sailed over Gallagher’s bar. Bennett was next to try a couple of long range efforts at the Bitton goal including a couple of free kicks but Gallagher was not seriously troubled. Coates again broke through on goal but her long range effort as the keeper came out sailed over the bar. Bitton were on top for 20 minutes and had a really good spell of pressure and forced several corners which were well delivered by Bray but Bitton just failed to make good contact, the closest coming when Hulbert lost her marker at the far post but headed wide when stretching.. The final whistle blew to signal an extra 30 minutes of extra time and both sets of players looked completely shattered as the Sun and intensity of the game really started to kick in.
Bitton looked out on their feet at the start of extra time but they knew if they got through the extra period they would always have a chance in the shootout with Gallagher’s excellent record of saving penalties. Cam were on top for the extra 30 minutes with Bitton happy to wind the clock down ,defend in numbers and see if Coates or James could catch Cam on the break. It was Tugwell though who created the first chance when she wriggled away from a few challenges down the left before getting her shot away but unfortunately it was straight at the keeper. Bitton legs were very tired now and they gave away several free kicks in the final third but some excellent defending from the back 3 prevented any clear sights of goal for Cam. The second period was more of the same with Bitton trying their best to wind the clock down as they knew they were struggling to get any numbers forward to support the attack. Bitton continued to restrict cam to long range efforts which they were struggling with but in the 120th minute of the game their was real drama as the ball fell to Brown on the edge of the box and she hit a superb dipping, swerving volley that smashed the bar and bounced back down where Bitton somehow managed to scramble the ball clear before the referee blew his whistle to signal the end of extra time.
With the whole Bitton side completely drained from playing 120 minutes with only 10 players in sweltering heat it was a case of whom physically had the energy to take a penalty and 5 volunteers stepped forward to take the pressure penalties that would decide if Bitton make it through to the final. The order was decided as
Scrase,Bray,Coates,Jones,Gallagher
Price won the toss and elected to go 2nd so Cam stepped up for the first penalty which she slotted to Gallagher right who had guessed to right way but she was just short 1-0 and the pressure was on. Scrase then stepped up for for Bittons 1st and she confidently sent the keeper the wrong way as she side footed home 1-1. Cam then stepped up and gambled that Gallagher would dive again but she stood still and saved the well hit penalty with her legs 1-1. Up next for Bitton was their regular penalty taker Bray but she hit her shot weakly down the middle, fortunately the keeper had already committed and the ball went in 1-2. Up next for Cam was their top scorer Rickarby and after some Bruce Grobbelaar type spaghetti legs from Gallagher Rickarby blazed the ball high over the bar 1-2. next up for the Ton was leading scorer Coates and she hit probably the best penalty as she smashed the ball wide of the keeper to put Bitton within touching distance 1-3. This now meant the pressure was on Cam as they had to score their next penalty and it was their keeper who was chosen to take it. In a repeat of their previous penalty Gallagher seemed to do enough to put her off as she once again skied the ball and in the process sent Bitton through to the final and sparked a pile onto the hero Gallagher as she was mobbed by her jubilant teammates.
In the end Bitton deserved to progress due to sheer guts and determination as they overcame the handicap of having a player less for the whole game and once again proved what a tremendous team spirit they have
Player of the match-Could have been anybody but Leanne Jones just pipped the rest of the team for a superb midfield performance full of running and crunching tackles
Once again Bitton were let down by several individuals who cried off on the morning of the game and had to play the entire game with 10 players one of which was Holly Fox who has not played for over a year. Carly Bray moved back into defence to cover for the absent Char Knight and Fox started in central midfield alongside Leanne Jones as Bitton started with a 3-4-2 formation.
On the hottest day of the year and on a bumpy pitch it was always going to be a tough ask for the 10 players of Bitton but they produced a performance full of work rate, desire and team spirit to eventually grind out a win against the previously unbeaten division 1 champions.
Bitton started the game well and Fox and Jones looked up for it as they put in a few crunching tackles. The Bitton back 3 of Scrase, Price and Bray were keeping a close eye on the dangerous Cam forward line of Rickarby and Brown as Bitton looked to soak up the Pressure and hit on the counter attack. Cam had the first good chance of the game when a long free kick was left by the Bitton defence and a Cam player headed over from 6 yards. Leanne Jones then tested the keeper from 25 yards with a dipping volley and Coates did well to get a shot away but it was straight at the keeper .Hulbert then had to leave the field for several minutes to receive treatment to a back injury but Bitton battled on with only 9 players. As in the previous two meetings this season the game was keenly contested in midfield with both defences looking very strong and minimal goalmouth action. Fox then picked up a harsh booking for a late tackle, her first mistimed tackle of the day as the half concluded with play in the midfield as it had been for most of the game so far.
The Bitton players looked exhausted at half time but they were sent out with instructions of keep it up for the next 45 and see what happens. The sun was really starting to take its toll on some players. The 2nd half was almost identical to the 1st with both teams probing but struggling against 2 excellent defences. With tired legs all over the pitch plenty of gaps started to appear and Coates broke free on goal but her attempted lob drifted just wide and then a fast break from Cam saw the ball fall to rickarby but her volley sailed over Gallagher’s bar. Bennett was next to try a couple of long range efforts at the Bitton goal including a couple of free kicks but Gallagher was not seriously troubled. Coates again broke through on goal but her long range effort as the keeper came out sailed over the bar. Bitton were on top for 20 minutes and had a really good spell of pressure and forced several corners which were well delivered by Bray but Bitton just failed to make good contact, the closest coming when Hulbert lost her marker at the far post but headed wide when stretching.. The final whistle blew to signal an extra 30 minutes of extra time and both sets of players looked completely shattered as the Sun and intensity of the game really started to kick in.
Bitton looked out on their feet at the start of extra time but they knew if they got through the extra period they would always have a chance in the shootout with Gallagher’s excellent record of saving penalties. Cam were on top for the extra 30 minutes with Bitton happy to wind the clock down ,defend in numbers and see if Coates or James could catch Cam on the break. It was Tugwell though who created the first chance when she wriggled away from a few challenges down the left before getting her shot away but unfortunately it was straight at the keeper. Bitton legs were very tired now and they gave away several free kicks in the final third but some excellent defending from the back 3 prevented any clear sights of goal for Cam. The second period was more of the same with Bitton trying their best to wind the clock down as they knew they were struggling to get any numbers forward to support the attack. Bitton continued to restrict cam to long range efforts which they were struggling with but in the 120th minute of the game their was real drama as the ball fell to Brown on the edge of the box and she hit a superb dipping, swerving volley that smashed the bar and bounced back down where Bitton somehow managed to scramble the ball clear before the referee blew his whistle to signal the end of extra time.
With the whole Bitton side completely drained from playing 120 minutes with only 10 players in sweltering heat it was a case of whom physically had the energy to take a penalty and 5 volunteers stepped forward to take the pressure penalties that would decide if Bitton make it through to the final. The order was decided as
Scrase,Bray,Coates,Jones,Gallagher
Price won the toss and elected to go 2nd so Cam stepped up for the first penalty which she slotted to Gallagher right who had guessed to right way but she was just short 1-0 and the pressure was on. Scrase then stepped up for for Bittons 1st and she confidently sent the keeper the wrong way as she side footed home 1-1. Cam then stepped up and gambled that Gallagher would dive again but she stood still and saved the well hit penalty with her legs 1-1. Up next for Bitton was their regular penalty taker Bray but she hit her shot weakly down the middle, fortunately the keeper had already committed and the ball went in 1-2. Up next for Cam was their top scorer Rickarby and after some Bruce Grobbelaar type spaghetti legs from Gallagher Rickarby blazed the ball high over the bar 1-2. next up for the Ton was leading scorer Coates and she hit probably the best penalty as she smashed the ball wide of the keeper to put Bitton within touching distance 1-3. This now meant the pressure was on Cam as they had to score their next penalty and it was their keeper who was chosen to take it. In a repeat of their previous penalty Gallagher seemed to do enough to put her off as she once again skied the ball and in the process sent Bitton through to the final and sparked a pile onto the hero Gallagher as she was mobbed by her jubilant teammates.
In the end Bitton deserved to progress due to sheer guts and determination as they overcame the handicap of having a player less for the whole game and once again proved what a tremendous team spirit they have
Player of the match-Could have been anybody but Leanne Jones just pipped the rest of the team for a superb midfield performance full of running and crunching tackles
Longlevens 2-3 Bitton (AET)
L Jones, Tugwell, Coates
Tuggs scored crucial goal
Bitton moved into the Semi Finals of the league cup for the 2nd year running when they overcame a tricky tie against Longlevens, eventually coming through 3-2 after extra time.
Once again Bitton were hit by late withdrawls from the squad so again had to play the entire game with only 10 players and with the pitch very hard and bobbly and the swirling wind the game was never going to be a football spectacle. What we did get though was a very even game with plenty of goalmouth action and incident. The first half saw both teams trying to get a hold on the game and Longlvenes playing only 1 upfront for most of the game despite having an extra player, they looked at their most dangerous from set pieces as Kim Hewlett time and again delivered some excellent balls into the box and it was usually a Longlvens head on the end of it but some poor finishing meant the scores remained blank. Bitton had a few chances with Char Knight Shooting wide when well placed and the hardworking Amber Coates lofting the ball over the Levens keeper but wide of the post after breaking free.
After a goalless first half Levens tool the lead within the first minute of the second half as Bitton failed to clear the ball on several occasions and the ball was eventually crossed for Kate Hewlett who had the easiest of chances to tap home. This seemed to push Bitton into some more positive play and they were back in the game within 5 minutes when Leanne Jones outmuscled Kim Hewlett and produced a sublime chip from 25 yards which left the keeper rooted to the spot. The game became a bit niggly and the referee dished out a few needless bookings which only frustrated the players even more and the large Longlevens support became involved in a little bit of abuse towards the Bitton players. Both teams continued to push for an opening and it was Bitton who were looking stronger despite having a player less. It was a stroke of luck that handed the next goal to Longlevens as an attempted clearance in the Bitton box was smashed straight at an opposition midfielder and the ball rebounded straight into the bottom corner. Once again the goal sparked some life into Bitton and they went searching for another equaliser but the ball would just not fall. The levens keeper Maz Seymour-Hyde made 2 fantastic saves from Coates as time ticked away. With only 3 minutes left to play Bitton were awarded a corner on the left and Carly Bray hit a great strike to the far post where Laura Tugwell somehow managed to bundle the ball in with a real suspicion of handball but the referee somehow missed it and awarded the goal which sent the tie to extra time.
Early in the 1st period Coates again broke clear of Hewlett and managed to round Seymour-Hyde leaving her a simple finish to put Bitton ahead for the first time in the tie. Levens now started to push hard and made a couple of substitutions but Bitton held strong with good defending and Gallagher made a few routine saves from a couple of long range shots.
The 2nd period saw levens going all out attack leaving gaps at the back and Bitton really should of wrapped the game up with a couple of breakaways where they could of done better when well placed. The last 5 minutes saw a number of corners for levens with their keeper even coming up to try and get a goal one of these resulted in a mammoth scramble in the Bitton box with defenders putting their body on the line and Gallagher making a great point blank save. In the final minute another levens corner was cleared and Coates broke away and after beating the only defender she somehow managed to roll the ball wide with an open goal at her mercy.
Another good team performance from the Bitton girls who continue to defy the odds despite playing under-strength. The win now sets up a repeat of last season’s semi final where they will travel to Division 1 champions Cam Bulldogs
Player of the Match- Leanne Jones/ Amber Coates- Both worked hard throughout the game and managed to get on the scoresheet.
Once again Bitton were hit by late withdrawls from the squad so again had to play the entire game with only 10 players and with the pitch very hard and bobbly and the swirling wind the game was never going to be a football spectacle. What we did get though was a very even game with plenty of goalmouth action and incident. The first half saw both teams trying to get a hold on the game and Longlvenes playing only 1 upfront for most of the game despite having an extra player, they looked at their most dangerous from set pieces as Kim Hewlett time and again delivered some excellent balls into the box and it was usually a Longlvens head on the end of it but some poor finishing meant the scores remained blank. Bitton had a few chances with Char Knight Shooting wide when well placed and the hardworking Amber Coates lofting the ball over the Levens keeper but wide of the post after breaking free.
After a goalless first half Levens tool the lead within the first minute of the second half as Bitton failed to clear the ball on several occasions and the ball was eventually crossed for Kate Hewlett who had the easiest of chances to tap home. This seemed to push Bitton into some more positive play and they were back in the game within 5 minutes when Leanne Jones outmuscled Kim Hewlett and produced a sublime chip from 25 yards which left the keeper rooted to the spot. The game became a bit niggly and the referee dished out a few needless bookings which only frustrated the players even more and the large Longlevens support became involved in a little bit of abuse towards the Bitton players. Both teams continued to push for an opening and it was Bitton who were looking stronger despite having a player less. It was a stroke of luck that handed the next goal to Longlevens as an attempted clearance in the Bitton box was smashed straight at an opposition midfielder and the ball rebounded straight into the bottom corner. Once again the goal sparked some life into Bitton and they went searching for another equaliser but the ball would just not fall. The levens keeper Maz Seymour-Hyde made 2 fantastic saves from Coates as time ticked away. With only 3 minutes left to play Bitton were awarded a corner on the left and Carly Bray hit a great strike to the far post where Laura Tugwell somehow managed to bundle the ball in with a real suspicion of handball but the referee somehow missed it and awarded the goal which sent the tie to extra time.
Early in the 1st period Coates again broke clear of Hewlett and managed to round Seymour-Hyde leaving her a simple finish to put Bitton ahead for the first time in the tie. Levens now started to push hard and made a couple of substitutions but Bitton held strong with good defending and Gallagher made a few routine saves from a couple of long range shots.
The 2nd period saw levens going all out attack leaving gaps at the back and Bitton really should of wrapped the game up with a couple of breakaways where they could of done better when well placed. The last 5 minutes saw a number of corners for levens with their keeper even coming up to try and get a goal one of these resulted in a mammoth scramble in the Bitton box with defenders putting their body on the line and Gallagher making a great point blank save. In the final minute another levens corner was cleared and Coates broke away and after beating the only defender she somehow managed to roll the ball wide with an open goal at her mercy.
Another good team performance from the Bitton girls who continue to defy the odds despite playing under-strength. The win now sets up a repeat of last season’s semi final where they will travel to Division 1 champions Cam Bulldogs
Player of the Match- Leanne Jones/ Amber Coates- Both worked hard throughout the game and managed to get on the scoresheet.
Bristol & west 2-2 Bitton
Coates,Bray
Bitton limped to the finsih line in the league this season as their patched up side drew 2-2 with Bristol & West in the final league game of the season.Recently retired Kirsty Skinner came in to stand in goal as Chloe Gallagher mmissed her first game of the season & Steph Golbourne came in up front to partner Amber Coates as Bitton took to the field with only 10 players again.
On a hard bumbp pitch and with the wind swirling their was not much football played all day. Bristol & wets took the lead on 20 minuteswhen B & w captain Helen Marsh hit a free kick from out wide on the left and her effort deceievd Skinner who tried to punch the ball away and completely missed it. Bitton responded fairly quickly as a corner from Bray led to Coates hooking the ball over the line via the cross bar the ball bounced back out and Hulbert made sure as she headed the ball back in but the ball had already crossed the line from Coates initial effort.
B& w regained the lead in the second half as their pacy striker fired a good strike over Skinner from a tight angle as teh Bitton defence looked all over the place and failed to clear the ball. bitton responded again and it was another corner from Bray that got them level when the defender on the far post could only help guide the ball into teh net As brays driven corner put her under pressure.
both teams had chances to win it but in the end a draw is propbably a fair reflection on the game.
Bittons failure to get 3 points means they finish the season in 4th place. I am sure that if the squad that started the season would have stayed together for the whole campaign then we would have been challenging for top spot but due to various circumstances it was not to be. Bitton still have the league cup to play for and face a tricky away tie at Longlvenes in the quarter final.
On a hard bumbp pitch and with the wind swirling their was not much football played all day. Bristol & wets took the lead on 20 minuteswhen B & w captain Helen Marsh hit a free kick from out wide on the left and her effort deceievd Skinner who tried to punch the ball away and completely missed it. Bitton responded fairly quickly as a corner from Bray led to Coates hooking the ball over the line via the cross bar the ball bounced back out and Hulbert made sure as she headed the ball back in but the ball had already crossed the line from Coates initial effort.
B& w regained the lead in the second half as their pacy striker fired a good strike over Skinner from a tight angle as teh Bitton defence looked all over the place and failed to clear the ball. bitton responded again and it was another corner from Bray that got them level when the defender on the far post could only help guide the ball into teh net As brays driven corner put her under pressure.
both teams had chances to win it but in the end a draw is propbably a fair reflection on the game.
Bittons failure to get 3 points means they finish the season in 4th place. I am sure that if the squad that started the season would have stayed together for the whole campaign then we would have been challenging for top spot but due to various circumstances it was not to be. Bitton still have the league cup to play for and face a tricky away tie at Longlvenes in the quarter final.
Bitton 3-0 AEK Boco
Coates, Rudge Hmalin
Bray
Bitton Ladies moved into the Quarter finals of the league cup with a 3-0 win over local rivals and Division 2 runners up AEK Boco. Luckily Char Knight and Laura Tugwell made it back from London in time to play and Jess Rudge-Hamlin also came into help out in only her second appearance of the season meaning Bitton managed to start the game with 11 players but no subs. Boco in contrast came with a large squad with 4 subs named including the excellent Sophie Wyatt and last seasons leading scorer Jess Sedgesdby waiting on the bench. After last weeks good performance .Bitton decided to stick with the 3-5-2 formation hoping the extra player in the midfield would allow them to take control of the game.
Bitton started the game much the stronger and really came flying out the traps. The wide players Nat Hulbert and Esther Hoszynak were asked to do a job on the dangerous Kelly Cutler and Sasha Ferris allowing Leanne Jones, Laura Tugwell and Carly Bray the freedom to get forward and support the front two of Amber Coates and Rudge-Hamblin .Meg price should have opened the scoring when she got on the end of a great free-kick from Bray but she took her eye off the ball at the last minute and headed wide with the goal wide open. After some early midfield battles Bitton really started to take hold of the game and on 15 minutes and they took the lead when after good work from Jones saw her move the ball to Rudge-Hamlin who then played a nice ball through to the rushing Coates who was clear on goal but instead of taking the ball closer she decided to take an earlier shot and her drive from 30 yards was too much for the small Boco keeper as the ball flew into the far top corner. Boco looked shocked as Bitton continued to press. A nice angled ball from Coates then released Hulbert on the right but instead of going for goal he cut back and delivered an inch perfect cross for the on rushing Rudge-Hamlin who placed her firm header inches wide of the post. Bitton doubled their lead on 25 minutes when Bray won a tackle and passed to Coates who evaded 2 tackles before finding Rudge-Hamlin in the box, she took a touch before slotting the ball under the rushing keeper .After Leanne Jones from Bitton and Sammi Hollis from Boco had both been booked for soft fouls the game became a bit scrappy. The Bitton front two continued to be a threat but the Boco defence began to get to grips with them as the half came to and end and Boco started to retain a bit of possession in the final 10 minutes. Bitton gave away a few sloppy free kicks as Leanne Burge of Boco began the cause a few problems but neither Burge or Lucy Dinham could test Gallagher in the Bitton goals as the struck their free kicks wide.
Boco showed their intentions at half time as they threw on Wyatt & Sedgesdby in an attempt to get back into the game. They had plenty of possession and territory but the back 3 of Scrase, Price and Knight were in no mood to give up their clean sheet and time and again they frustrated Boco with some great defending and last ditch tackles. Again Boco were finding it very difficult to break Bitton down and were restricted to a couple of long range efforts from Wyatt and Burge which were dealt with comfortably by Gallagher. Bitton were denied on a few occasions as they looked to be through on goal but were stopped by the offside flag. The closest Boco came to pulling a goal back was when Cutler found some space in the area and her snap shot bounced back of the near post and was cleared to safety. Bitton were restricted to counter attacking football and twice Coates did well down the right and delivered excellent crosses where Rudge-Hamlin was inches away from connecting. Boco made their final change bringing on Barlow for Hollis and pushing Briony Harris into midfield and it almost paid off straight away as Harris got a good shot away but Gallagher again did well to pluck the ball out of the sky and hold onto it with Burge looking for the rebound. Tugwell then showed some great skill on the edge of the box as she turned her defender with ease and played a dangerous ball across the area but the Boco keeper did well to come out and smother the ball. The game seemed to be drawing to a close but their was still time for one more piece of goal mouth action as again Coates caused problems and found Rudge-hamlin who rounder the last defender before placing her shot wide of the keeper. Dinham clearance off the line fell straight back to Rudge-Hamlin who was just about to tee up Hulbert for a tap in when Ferris slid in from behind to bring her down for a penalty. After what seemed an age Carly Bray stepped up to drive the ball wide of the keeper to give the scoreline an impressive look. The ref only played another 30 seconds before blowing the final whistle which sent Bitton through to the next round.
An excellent team performance which showed both sides of our game. We looked a real threat in the first half with some fast and direct attacks but showed some real grit and determination in our defending n the second period as Boco looked to get back into the game.
Player of the Match- Meg Price/Amber Coates- Did completely different jobs but both players were on top form today
Bitton started the game much the stronger and really came flying out the traps. The wide players Nat Hulbert and Esther Hoszynak were asked to do a job on the dangerous Kelly Cutler and Sasha Ferris allowing Leanne Jones, Laura Tugwell and Carly Bray the freedom to get forward and support the front two of Amber Coates and Rudge-Hamblin .Meg price should have opened the scoring when she got on the end of a great free-kick from Bray but she took her eye off the ball at the last minute and headed wide with the goal wide open. After some early midfield battles Bitton really started to take hold of the game and on 15 minutes and they took the lead when after good work from Jones saw her move the ball to Rudge-Hamlin who then played a nice ball through to the rushing Coates who was clear on goal but instead of taking the ball closer she decided to take an earlier shot and her drive from 30 yards was too much for the small Boco keeper as the ball flew into the far top corner. Boco looked shocked as Bitton continued to press. A nice angled ball from Coates then released Hulbert on the right but instead of going for goal he cut back and delivered an inch perfect cross for the on rushing Rudge-Hamlin who placed her firm header inches wide of the post. Bitton doubled their lead on 25 minutes when Bray won a tackle and passed to Coates who evaded 2 tackles before finding Rudge-Hamlin in the box, she took a touch before slotting the ball under the rushing keeper .After Leanne Jones from Bitton and Sammi Hollis from Boco had both been booked for soft fouls the game became a bit scrappy. The Bitton front two continued to be a threat but the Boco defence began to get to grips with them as the half came to and end and Boco started to retain a bit of possession in the final 10 minutes. Bitton gave away a few sloppy free kicks as Leanne Burge of Boco began the cause a few problems but neither Burge or Lucy Dinham could test Gallagher in the Bitton goals as the struck their free kicks wide.
Boco showed their intentions at half time as they threw on Wyatt & Sedgesdby in an attempt to get back into the game. They had plenty of possession and territory but the back 3 of Scrase, Price and Knight were in no mood to give up their clean sheet and time and again they frustrated Boco with some great defending and last ditch tackles. Again Boco were finding it very difficult to break Bitton down and were restricted to a couple of long range efforts from Wyatt and Burge which were dealt with comfortably by Gallagher. Bitton were denied on a few occasions as they looked to be through on goal but were stopped by the offside flag. The closest Boco came to pulling a goal back was when Cutler found some space in the area and her snap shot bounced back of the near post and was cleared to safety. Bitton were restricted to counter attacking football and twice Coates did well down the right and delivered excellent crosses where Rudge-Hamlin was inches away from connecting. Boco made their final change bringing on Barlow for Hollis and pushing Briony Harris into midfield and it almost paid off straight away as Harris got a good shot away but Gallagher again did well to pluck the ball out of the sky and hold onto it with Burge looking for the rebound. Tugwell then showed some great skill on the edge of the box as she turned her defender with ease and played a dangerous ball across the area but the Boco keeper did well to come out and smother the ball. The game seemed to be drawing to a close but their was still time for one more piece of goal mouth action as again Coates caused problems and found Rudge-hamlin who rounder the last defender before placing her shot wide of the keeper. Dinham clearance off the line fell straight back to Rudge-Hamlin who was just about to tee up Hulbert for a tap in when Ferris slid in from behind to bring her down for a penalty. After what seemed an age Carly Bray stepped up to drive the ball wide of the keeper to give the scoreline an impressive look. The ref only played another 30 seconds before blowing the final whistle which sent Bitton through to the next round.
An excellent team performance which showed both sides of our game. We looked a real threat in the first half with some fast and direct attacks but showed some real grit and determination in our defending n the second period as Boco looked to get back into the game.
Player of the Match- Meg Price/Amber Coates- Did completely different jobs but both players were on top form today
Bitton 2-2 Cam Bulldogs
Hulbert,Coates
Carly had a great game
Bitton became the first team to take anything off Champions Cam bulldogs when they held them to a 2-2 draw despite only being able to field 10 players. Cam were playing their last game of the season looking to make it 100% record after winning all of their previous leagues games. They looked set to achieve that when they led 2-0 with 10 minutes to play but late goals From Nat Hulbert and Amber Coates secured a deserved draw.
After the late withdrawal of key player Leanne Jones due to the fixture being switched to Cam Bitton were left with only 10 players. They went with a 3-4-2 formation with Carly Bray pushing into midfield to replace the missing Jones. The start of the game was fairly even and both teams were playing some very neat football despite the mud bath of a pitch. Coates and James were linking up well up front and Bray and Sims were working hard in midfield. Bitton had an early scare when the pacy Leanne Rickarby raced clear with Gallagher rooted to her line but Gallagher made a great save with her feet to keep the scores level. Hulbert then linked well with James to find Coates but her shot was well saved by the Cam keeper. Despite the game being very tight and neither side creating 2 many clear chances Cam took the lead on 20 minutes when a long shot from Cam captain Lucy Bennet saw Gallagher in the Bitton goal let the ball slip through both her hands and her legs for a comical goal. This seemed to affect the Bitton side who were working hard to compensate for the extra payer Cam had. Bennet tried a few more long range efforts but Gallagher was equal to them. Esther Hoszynak was having her best game in a Bitton shirt on the left wing ad made several crunching tackles aswell as getting forward well. Bitton had a great chance to equalise when the ball was well worked to Hulbert on the inside right position but she took a heavy touch allowing the keeper to come out and smother the ball.
Despite being a goal down Bitton were positive at the start of the second half and continued to match the champions despite being a player down. The effort was typified by Char Knight who made a lung bursting run down the right wing skipping past several challenges with sublime skill before delivering a pin point cross that Hoszynak was inches away from converting. Bitton were really starting to get a decent hold on the game now with Sims and Bray outstanding in the middle of the park and Price and Scrase continuing to keep Rickarby quiet. After a nasty looking challenge Scrase hit the ground hard and after being knocked out for several minutes she eventually came round and was able to continue. Cam had a couple of long range efforts from Kirsty Brown and Bennet before they doubled there lead on 70 mins when after a nasty injury to Hulbert Bitton switched off and allowed Cam to work the ball forward and easily score. Maybe cam thought the game was over with the 2 goal advantage im not sure but Bitton stepped up there game even more in the final quarter and with price pushing on into midfield from the back Bitton started to create several chances. Some neat football released James but the ball hit the back of her legs as she ran away towards goal and then Bray made a great run down the left before finding Coates but her shot drifted over. Bitton were given some hope when a snap shot from James was only parried by the keeper and Hulbert was on hand to finish well despite looking offside. Bitton continued to pressure and were left very open to a fast break on the counter attack but knight and Scrase dealt with the few scares very well allowing everyone else to push forward looking for an equaliser. The goal they deserved came in the 92nd minute when the superb Bray found Coates in the area and this time she made no mistake as she drilled the ball into the bottom corner.
A terrific display from the Ton despite being understrength.They showed great battling qualities and spirit to come back from 2 goals down against the best team in the division.
Player of the Match- Carly Bray- asked to play out of possession she was superb all game in both defence and attack.
After the late withdrawal of key player Leanne Jones due to the fixture being switched to Cam Bitton were left with only 10 players. They went with a 3-4-2 formation with Carly Bray pushing into midfield to replace the missing Jones. The start of the game was fairly even and both teams were playing some very neat football despite the mud bath of a pitch. Coates and James were linking up well up front and Bray and Sims were working hard in midfield. Bitton had an early scare when the pacy Leanne Rickarby raced clear with Gallagher rooted to her line but Gallagher made a great save with her feet to keep the scores level. Hulbert then linked well with James to find Coates but her shot was well saved by the Cam keeper. Despite the game being very tight and neither side creating 2 many clear chances Cam took the lead on 20 minutes when a long shot from Cam captain Lucy Bennet saw Gallagher in the Bitton goal let the ball slip through both her hands and her legs for a comical goal. This seemed to affect the Bitton side who were working hard to compensate for the extra payer Cam had. Bennet tried a few more long range efforts but Gallagher was equal to them. Esther Hoszynak was having her best game in a Bitton shirt on the left wing ad made several crunching tackles aswell as getting forward well. Bitton had a great chance to equalise when the ball was well worked to Hulbert on the inside right position but she took a heavy touch allowing the keeper to come out and smother the ball.
Despite being a goal down Bitton were positive at the start of the second half and continued to match the champions despite being a player down. The effort was typified by Char Knight who made a lung bursting run down the right wing skipping past several challenges with sublime skill before delivering a pin point cross that Hoszynak was inches away from converting. Bitton were really starting to get a decent hold on the game now with Sims and Bray outstanding in the middle of the park and Price and Scrase continuing to keep Rickarby quiet. After a nasty looking challenge Scrase hit the ground hard and after being knocked out for several minutes she eventually came round and was able to continue. Cam had a couple of long range efforts from Kirsty Brown and Bennet before they doubled there lead on 70 mins when after a nasty injury to Hulbert Bitton switched off and allowed Cam to work the ball forward and easily score. Maybe cam thought the game was over with the 2 goal advantage im not sure but Bitton stepped up there game even more in the final quarter and with price pushing on into midfield from the back Bitton started to create several chances. Some neat football released James but the ball hit the back of her legs as she ran away towards goal and then Bray made a great run down the left before finding Coates but her shot drifted over. Bitton were given some hope when a snap shot from James was only parried by the keeper and Hulbert was on hand to finish well despite looking offside. Bitton continued to pressure and were left very open to a fast break on the counter attack but knight and Scrase dealt with the few scares very well allowing everyone else to push forward looking for an equaliser. The goal they deserved came in the 92nd minute when the superb Bray found Coates in the area and this time she made no mistake as she drilled the ball into the bottom corner.
A terrific display from the Ton despite being understrength.They showed great battling qualities and spirit to come back from 2 goals down against the best team in the division.
Player of the Match- Carly Bray- asked to play out of possession she was superb all game in both defence and attack.
Bitton 6-0 Southmead
Sims(2) HulbertL Jones, James, Gallagher
Sharifa opened the scoring
Bitton safely progressed to the next round of the league cup with a 6-0 win at home to Southmead of Division 3.
On a sticky pitch it was always going to be difficult but with Laura Tugwell getting injured in the first 5 minutes and with no subs the task got much harder. Even before that Bitton should have taken the lead as Amber Coates went clear within the first minute but her shot was saved. Southmead had there best spell of the entire game on 15 minutes when the front two caused a few problems and they managed to get a few shots in on goal. Any Bitton nerves were eased on 20 minutes when Coates did well to release Sharifa James who lofted the ball over the keeper from the edge of the box. It was 2-0 shortly after when more good work down the left from Coates saw the ball worked to Nat Hulbert who finished well. Hulbert was having a very good game down the right and beat her marker on a number of occasions before delivering some good crosses. The 3rd goal came shortly before half time when Hannah Sims worked some space in the box and fired home. Leanne Jones then fired an effort over the bar before Coates was through on goal again but once again the keeper did well to block her effort.
Bitton were well on to at the start of the second half and it was Leanne Jones who made it 4-0 when she struck home from the edge of the box. The goal proved to be the signal for a change in positions for the Bitton team with keeper Gallagher moving upfront to be replaced by L Jones. Price and Scrase moved forward into midfield and Coates dropped back into right midfield. Almost immediately Gallagher got her name on the score sheet when she cut in from the left and hit a blistering 25yarder that flew past the stranded Southmead keeper. The scoring was wrapped up by Sims when she broke the offside trap to calmly roll the ball past the keeper.
A comfortable victory for Bitton where the score would have been far greater with some better finishing
Player of the match- Nat Hulbert
On a sticky pitch it was always going to be difficult but with Laura Tugwell getting injured in the first 5 minutes and with no subs the task got much harder. Even before that Bitton should have taken the lead as Amber Coates went clear within the first minute but her shot was saved. Southmead had there best spell of the entire game on 15 minutes when the front two caused a few problems and they managed to get a few shots in on goal. Any Bitton nerves were eased on 20 minutes when Coates did well to release Sharifa James who lofted the ball over the keeper from the edge of the box. It was 2-0 shortly after when more good work down the left from Coates saw the ball worked to Nat Hulbert who finished well. Hulbert was having a very good game down the right and beat her marker on a number of occasions before delivering some good crosses. The 3rd goal came shortly before half time when Hannah Sims worked some space in the box and fired home. Leanne Jones then fired an effort over the bar before Coates was through on goal again but once again the keeper did well to block her effort.
Bitton were well on to at the start of the second half and it was Leanne Jones who made it 4-0 when she struck home from the edge of the box. The goal proved to be the signal for a change in positions for the Bitton team with keeper Gallagher moving upfront to be replaced by L Jones. Price and Scrase moved forward into midfield and Coates dropped back into right midfield. Almost immediately Gallagher got her name on the score sheet when she cut in from the left and hit a blistering 25yarder that flew past the stranded Southmead keeper. The scoring was wrapped up by Sims when she broke the offside trap to calmly roll the ball past the keeper.
A comfortable victory for Bitton where the score would have been far greater with some better finishing
Player of the match- Nat Hulbert
Cam 1-0 Bitton
Nat had a good chance
Bitton came away from this game disappointed as they went down to a single goal defeat at the champions. In a tight game it was Bitton who created more opportunities and Cam scored with their only decent effort on target of the whole game.
Starting with 5 across the midfield and just Amber Coates up top on her own Bitton started well dominating the middle. It was clear from early on in the game it would be a tight scrappy game as both teams seemed fairly even and the pitch was a mud bath before the start and became more and more boggy as the game went on. Kirsty Skinner picked up an early injury but bravely battled on despite obviously playing through the pain. Cam had a little bit of possession and a few corners but never got in behind Bitton and were restricted to long efforts and a couple of corners. Most of the play was in the Cam half with Bitton having a lot of possession and good territory without really threatening the Cam goal. They did get through on 30 Minutes when Coates played a ball into Leanne Jones who had made a great run but the keeper came out to make a smart save. In almost a repeat move Nat Hulbert was released by Char Knight but once again the keeper did well to come out quickly. On reflection these were probably the best two chances of the game.
The second half was the same as the first with a real midfield battle going on with Jones, Skinner and Hannah Sims working hard to shut the Cam midfield down. Robyn Scrase & Meg Price were dealing with the Cam attacks well and Knight and Carly Bray were trying to push forward, Coates was becoming a bit isolated up front and the wide players of Hulbert and Hosynzak were really struggling to get into the game. The killer blow came on 75 minutes when Cams captain L Bennet collected a throw in a knocked the ball into the striker who turned Scrase and poked the ball into the far corner for a good goal. With the pitch now very heavy it was showing on some tired Bitton legs and Sharifa James came on to try and rescue a point. With Bitton pushing forward they were always likely to be caught on the break and it was Knight who nearly set them up when clearing the ball the complete opposite way (maybe she was already dreaming of her evening spent with dancing on ice and Wild at Heart) luckily Price just got back to clear the danger with the striker bearing down on her. Cam should have wrapped the points up when a cross made its way to the far post but was somehow headed over from only 6 yards with the goal open.
A tight game between two well matched teams but Cam just had that clinical touch which shows why they are champions.
Player of the Match-Leanne Jones- Great work rate in the engine room and got forward well to support Coates.
Starting with 5 across the midfield and just Amber Coates up top on her own Bitton started well dominating the middle. It was clear from early on in the game it would be a tight scrappy game as both teams seemed fairly even and the pitch was a mud bath before the start and became more and more boggy as the game went on. Kirsty Skinner picked up an early injury but bravely battled on despite obviously playing through the pain. Cam had a little bit of possession and a few corners but never got in behind Bitton and were restricted to long efforts and a couple of corners. Most of the play was in the Cam half with Bitton having a lot of possession and good territory without really threatening the Cam goal. They did get through on 30 Minutes when Coates played a ball into Leanne Jones who had made a great run but the keeper came out to make a smart save. In almost a repeat move Nat Hulbert was released by Char Knight but once again the keeper did well to come out quickly. On reflection these were probably the best two chances of the game.
The second half was the same as the first with a real midfield battle going on with Jones, Skinner and Hannah Sims working hard to shut the Cam midfield down. Robyn Scrase & Meg Price were dealing with the Cam attacks well and Knight and Carly Bray were trying to push forward, Coates was becoming a bit isolated up front and the wide players of Hulbert and Hosynzak were really struggling to get into the game. The killer blow came on 75 minutes when Cams captain L Bennet collected a throw in a knocked the ball into the striker who turned Scrase and poked the ball into the far corner for a good goal. With the pitch now very heavy it was showing on some tired Bitton legs and Sharifa James came on to try and rescue a point. With Bitton pushing forward they were always likely to be caught on the break and it was Knight who nearly set them up when clearing the ball the complete opposite way (maybe she was already dreaming of her evening spent with dancing on ice and Wild at Heart) luckily Price just got back to clear the danger with the striker bearing down on her. Cam should have wrapped the points up when a cross made its way to the far post but was somehow headed over from only 6 yards with the goal open.
A tight game between two well matched teams but Cam just had that clinical touch which shows why they are champions.
Player of the Match-Leanne Jones- Great work rate in the engine room and got forward well to support Coates.
Dursley 0 v 3 Bitton
Coates, Price, James
Esther gets tight to the dangerous Kirsty turl
Bitton picked up their first league win for some time but it was far from a comfortable afternoon as Bitton looked very rusty and it took late goals from Coates, James and Price to secure the win.
In truth Bitton dominated the game from start to finish and the score line was only kept down with some poor finishing combined with an excellent goalkeeping performance from Dursley Stopper Jodie Turl.Ladies keepers are often labelled as on of the main differences between the mens game as even at the top level you see silly mistakes but Turl put in a performance of the highest quality with a number of fine saves and excellent positioning.
Bitton were frustrated by the Dursley offside trap early on but they did break through a number of times and Coates, James,Bray L Jones, Hulbert and Sims all had very good chances to open the scoring but all fluffed their lines when in front of goal.
It took till the 70th minute before Bitton took the lead when defenders Knight and price found themselves playing around in the opposition penalty box after pushing forward and the ball was eventually worked to Coates who smashed the ball high into the net.. This seemed to relax the Bitton girls and it was 2-0 5 minutes later when after keeper Turl had made a good diving save the ball landed at James feet who lobbed the ball back into the empty net from the edge of the box. Further chances were misses most notably by Bray who found herself clear on goal 3 or 4 times but each time could not produce a decent finish. The final goal of the game came from captain for the day Price who had moved into midfield and she found herself 20 yards out and decided to let fly. The ball went sailing over the helpless Turl to wrap up the 3 points.
A far from convincing performance but with better finishing the score could have been very flattering
Player of the match-Jodie Turl(Dursley) All Bitton players had an off day and she almost single handed kept the score down
In truth Bitton dominated the game from start to finish and the score line was only kept down with some poor finishing combined with an excellent goalkeeping performance from Dursley Stopper Jodie Turl.Ladies keepers are often labelled as on of the main differences between the mens game as even at the top level you see silly mistakes but Turl put in a performance of the highest quality with a number of fine saves and excellent positioning.
Bitton were frustrated by the Dursley offside trap early on but they did break through a number of times and Coates, James,Bray L Jones, Hulbert and Sims all had very good chances to open the scoring but all fluffed their lines when in front of goal.
It took till the 70th minute before Bitton took the lead when defenders Knight and price found themselves playing around in the opposition penalty box after pushing forward and the ball was eventually worked to Coates who smashed the ball high into the net.. This seemed to relax the Bitton girls and it was 2-0 5 minutes later when after keeper Turl had made a good diving save the ball landed at James feet who lobbed the ball back into the empty net from the edge of the box. Further chances were misses most notably by Bray who found herself clear on goal 3 or 4 times but each time could not produce a decent finish. The final goal of the game came from captain for the day Price who had moved into midfield and she found herself 20 yards out and decided to let fly. The ball went sailing over the helpless Turl to wrap up the 3 points.
A far from convincing performance but with better finishing the score could have been very flattering
Player of the match-Jodie Turl(Dursley) All Bitton players had an off day and she almost single handed kept the score down
Plymouth Argyle 6 v 0 Bitton
The captains meet before the game
Bitton made the long trip down to Plymouth knowing what a massive task they had ahead of them as they faced a Plymouth Argyle side that are top of their league and looking set for a place in the premier League next season. Bittons cause was not helped with the withdrawl of two players who would have been starting the game early on Sunday morning. This meant Bitton had to travel with the bare 11 as they prepared to play the biggest game in the clubs short history.
On a cold and wet day Bitton arrived to find the pitch in a fairly decent condition considering the amount of rain and the fact that several other local games had been called off. The Bitton girls were sent out with clear instructions to try and frustrate the experienced Plymouth side and to defend deep with numbers behind the ball. The game plan worked for the first 25 minutes before Plymouth took the lead and Bitton managed to hang on to half time with the score still at 1-0. Plymouth scored a second early in the 2nd period and the introduction of some fresh legs gave the home side a boost and they went on to score 4 more in the second half.
Bitton started in a 4-5-1 formation with Steph Golbourne coming in for her first game of the season in central midfield and Amber Coates playing as the lone striker. It was clear from the start that Plymouth would be having the vast majority of possession. Esther Hosyznak started the game well with some impressive defending and a good tackle from Leanne Jones denied American Brittany Toppert who was already looking a threat with some intelligent runs. A free kick after a hand ball by Kristy skinner presented the first real test but Plymouth Skipper Kate Middleton blazed her strike high over the bar. Toppert then tested Gallagher in the Bitton goal with a rasping left foot drive from 30 yards but Gallagher was equal to it and tipped the ball over. After surviving a few dangerous moments with some great defending by Meg price and carly bray Bitton almost took a surprise lead against the run of play. Bray hit a long free kick towards the Plymouth box which was only half cleared and Skinner was quickest to the lose ball, she hit a raping left foot strike that was quite brilliantly tipped away by The Plymouth keeper Michala Phillips. A combination of Char Knight and Jones then denied Laura Gough a shooting chance before Rebecca Mcmillan tried her luck from distance but Gallagher was equal to it. It was all Plymouth but Bitton were defending well and restricting the opposition to long range efforts. The main danger seemed to come from set pieces especially corners where the impressive Laura Perrett was knocking in some great balls. Skinner was doing a good job marking Middleton from the set pieces. Leah Brooks was next to have a go for the Pilgrims as she hit a volley from the edge of the box but once again it was straight at Gallagher. Coates was working really hard up from on her own and after some great pressure she forced Vikki fanon into giving a corner away. Bray knocked in a superb delivery that flashed across the line with everybody missing it including Nat Hulbert who was inches away from heading it in... After holding Plymouth for so long the deadlock was broken on 25 minutes with a really soft goal as yet another corner was played in and Gallagher half came but missed it and the ball bounced onto Hayley Strouds knee and trickled over the line. Price was having a great game at the back for Bitton and she made several important headers for Bitton to ease the pressure. Middleton then knocked in another free kick and this time it was Robyn Scrase turn to head clear. The constant pressure continued and a few more good corners came over with Stroud heading one just over. Toppert then did well in the inside left position and turned Scrase but she blazed her shot over. Gallagher then did well to punch clear a shot and Jones sliced the rebound back into the danger area where there was a massive scramble with Bitton struggling to clear their lines. It was Bray who eventually put her food through the ball.
To hold a team such as Plymouth to only 1-0 at half time is a great achievement for Bitton but it was clear to see some players were beginning to tire and due to the events of the morning when other members of the squad had let the team down by not travelling the team were without any substitutes meaning every player would be required to play the full 90 minutes. The introduction of the 3 lively subs from Plymouth made a big difference in the second half and was one of the main reasons they went on to score 5 second half goals.
The second half was only 4 minutes old when Perret hit a great strike that saw a wonder save from Gallagher as she dived to her right but unfortunately the ball broke straight to Rachel Javan who poked the ball home. Plymouth continued to pile on the pressure but Bitton did not let their heads drop and continued to battle for every ball. Bitton nearly got back into the game when some great work by the impressive Bray released Coates with the Plymouth rearguard appealing for offside but Coates first touch took her wide allowing the defence to get back in and force the ball out for a corner. Plymouth got their 3rd as their top scorer Task Knapman who had come off the bench cut in from the right and drilled the ball into the bottom corner. Gallagher then saved a Gough effort before Toppert, perrett and Middleton all tried there luck but failed to hit the target. Plymouth were playing some nice football all on their own but Knight then decided to give them a bit of help as she collected a ball in her own box and as she tried to clear the danger could only drill the ball past Gallagher for 4-0 and a strange own goal. It was 5-0 when Scrase dived in out wide and Perret lashed the ball home. Price almost scored another own goal as her sliced clearance rebounded of the post before Plymouth wrapped things up with the 6th goal of the game and it was probably the pick of the bunch as javan exchanged passes in midfield before drilling a great ball into the bottom corner giving Gallagher no chance. Bitton continued to battle despite the tired legs and there cause was not helped when Bray limped from the field after a nasty challenge late on.
As was expected the gulf in the two teams was clear but despite being several players short the Bitton girls did everyone connected with the club proud with a performance full of endeavour and work-rate. If they can show this type of attitude and performance then there is still a chance the rest of the season can bring some success. Plymouth are an excellent side and we wish them good luck in the next round and there quest fro promotion to the Premier League.
Was a great day out for the girls and was worth it just for the coach trip home.
Player of the Match- Chloe Gallagher- The Bitton keeper did well all afternoon despite constant pressure and made several impressive saves and dealt with many crosses really well
On a cold and wet day Bitton arrived to find the pitch in a fairly decent condition considering the amount of rain and the fact that several other local games had been called off. The Bitton girls were sent out with clear instructions to try and frustrate the experienced Plymouth side and to defend deep with numbers behind the ball. The game plan worked for the first 25 minutes before Plymouth took the lead and Bitton managed to hang on to half time with the score still at 1-0. Plymouth scored a second early in the 2nd period and the introduction of some fresh legs gave the home side a boost and they went on to score 4 more in the second half.
Bitton started in a 4-5-1 formation with Steph Golbourne coming in for her first game of the season in central midfield and Amber Coates playing as the lone striker. It was clear from the start that Plymouth would be having the vast majority of possession. Esther Hosyznak started the game well with some impressive defending and a good tackle from Leanne Jones denied American Brittany Toppert who was already looking a threat with some intelligent runs. A free kick after a hand ball by Kristy skinner presented the first real test but Plymouth Skipper Kate Middleton blazed her strike high over the bar. Toppert then tested Gallagher in the Bitton goal with a rasping left foot drive from 30 yards but Gallagher was equal to it and tipped the ball over. After surviving a few dangerous moments with some great defending by Meg price and carly bray Bitton almost took a surprise lead against the run of play. Bray hit a long free kick towards the Plymouth box which was only half cleared and Skinner was quickest to the lose ball, she hit a raping left foot strike that was quite brilliantly tipped away by The Plymouth keeper Michala Phillips. A combination of Char Knight and Jones then denied Laura Gough a shooting chance before Rebecca Mcmillan tried her luck from distance but Gallagher was equal to it. It was all Plymouth but Bitton were defending well and restricting the opposition to long range efforts. The main danger seemed to come from set pieces especially corners where the impressive Laura Perrett was knocking in some great balls. Skinner was doing a good job marking Middleton from the set pieces. Leah Brooks was next to have a go for the Pilgrims as she hit a volley from the edge of the box but once again it was straight at Gallagher. Coates was working really hard up from on her own and after some great pressure she forced Vikki fanon into giving a corner away. Bray knocked in a superb delivery that flashed across the line with everybody missing it including Nat Hulbert who was inches away from heading it in... After holding Plymouth for so long the deadlock was broken on 25 minutes with a really soft goal as yet another corner was played in and Gallagher half came but missed it and the ball bounced onto Hayley Strouds knee and trickled over the line. Price was having a great game at the back for Bitton and she made several important headers for Bitton to ease the pressure. Middleton then knocked in another free kick and this time it was Robyn Scrase turn to head clear. The constant pressure continued and a few more good corners came over with Stroud heading one just over. Toppert then did well in the inside left position and turned Scrase but she blazed her shot over. Gallagher then did well to punch clear a shot and Jones sliced the rebound back into the danger area where there was a massive scramble with Bitton struggling to clear their lines. It was Bray who eventually put her food through the ball.
To hold a team such as Plymouth to only 1-0 at half time is a great achievement for Bitton but it was clear to see some players were beginning to tire and due to the events of the morning when other members of the squad had let the team down by not travelling the team were without any substitutes meaning every player would be required to play the full 90 minutes. The introduction of the 3 lively subs from Plymouth made a big difference in the second half and was one of the main reasons they went on to score 5 second half goals.
The second half was only 4 minutes old when Perret hit a great strike that saw a wonder save from Gallagher as she dived to her right but unfortunately the ball broke straight to Rachel Javan who poked the ball home. Plymouth continued to pile on the pressure but Bitton did not let their heads drop and continued to battle for every ball. Bitton nearly got back into the game when some great work by the impressive Bray released Coates with the Plymouth rearguard appealing for offside but Coates first touch took her wide allowing the defence to get back in and force the ball out for a corner. Plymouth got their 3rd as their top scorer Task Knapman who had come off the bench cut in from the right and drilled the ball into the bottom corner. Gallagher then saved a Gough effort before Toppert, perrett and Middleton all tried there luck but failed to hit the target. Plymouth were playing some nice football all on their own but Knight then decided to give them a bit of help as she collected a ball in her own box and as she tried to clear the danger could only drill the ball past Gallagher for 4-0 and a strange own goal. It was 5-0 when Scrase dived in out wide and Perret lashed the ball home. Price almost scored another own goal as her sliced clearance rebounded of the post before Plymouth wrapped things up with the 6th goal of the game and it was probably the pick of the bunch as javan exchanged passes in midfield before drilling a great ball into the bottom corner giving Gallagher no chance. Bitton continued to battle despite the tired legs and there cause was not helped when Bray limped from the field after a nasty challenge late on.
As was expected the gulf in the two teams was clear but despite being several players short the Bitton girls did everyone connected with the club proud with a performance full of endeavour and work-rate. If they can show this type of attitude and performance then there is still a chance the rest of the season can bring some success. Plymouth are an excellent side and we wish them good luck in the next round and there quest fro promotion to the Premier League.
Was a great day out for the girls and was worth it just for the coach trip home.
Player of the Match- Chloe Gallagher- The Bitton keeper did well all afternoon despite constant pressure and made several impressive saves and dealt with many crosses really well
Forest Of dean 2 v 2 Bitton
Hulbert,Coates
Carly Bray madea big differance
After taking a two goal lead through Nat Hulbert and Amber Coates Bitton were pegged back after two Chloe Gallagher mistakes as they drew 2-2 away at Forest Of Dean.
Bitton produced their best performance for some time as they were boosted by the quality of Carly Bray who came in at left back for her first start of the season. It was Bray who very prominent in the first half as time and again she got forward well from the back and created chances for the ton. After arriving late and only having a couple of minutes to prepare Bitton started the game really well. Leanne Jones made a couple of surging runs through the middle and Bray was linking up well with Esther Hoszynak down the left feeding Coates and Lisa Frampton. Frampton should have done better but she took too long when presented with a good chance after excellent work from Coates Bray delivered a number of excellent corners which Kirsty Skinner got on the end of and Bitton maybe should have had a penalty as Hosznyal was taking out from behind but the ref waved played on. Forest of Dean showed their attacking potential for the first time as Sam Morse turned and ran at the defence and skipped past Price leaving her a clear run at the Bitton goal. Bray got back to make a challenge but Morse still got a shot away which Gallagher did well to come out and smother. Bitton were still on top and Frampton and Coates were working well together and several crosses were delivered into the box with Bitton not quite being able to get shots away. Hoszynak had a great chance when Nat Hulbert delivered a cross and she found the left winger with time and space inside the area but she hit a weak shot that the keeper easily gathered. Bray then tested the keeper from 40 yards but the ball just drifted over the bar. Bitton did take the lead minutes later after some great work by Frampton and Bray saw Frampton deliver a perfect cross to the far post where Hulbert came steaming in to bundle the ball over the line. Bitton were playing some of their best football of the season now and creating plenty of chances and it was 2-0 soon after as Coates made a great run down the right and was found by a great pass by Skinner, Coates looked to be too wide but she fired in a great strike that went over the keeper for her 9th goal of the season. Bitton were now cruising and looked like extending the lead a few times as Hulbert, Skinner and Hoszynak had shots and then L Jones went on a great mazy run which ended with the FOd Keeper making a great save down to her left. The turning point in the game came 5 minutes before the break as a harmless ball was lofted over the Bitton defence and seemed to be rolling through to Gallagher in goal but despite the ball being 80-20% in her favour she remained rooted to her line and Morse nipped in to poke the ball past her.
It only took 5 minutes of the second half for FOD to equalise and it came in a bizarre fashion. Leanne Jones received treatment after a blatant foul that the ref missed and as Bitton had kicked the ball out Forest of Dean returned it back down the pitch. The ball was not played very hard so Gallagher had to come 30 yards off her line to get the ball but as she came out the two FOD strikers decided to then shut her down despite them supposedly giving the ball back the pressure forced Gallagher to weakly scuff her kick to the opposition and 5 seconds later after a couple of passes the ball was in the net. Bitton almost responded immediately as Bray hit a great strike from near the half way line that the keeper managed to scramble away for a corner. FOD were coming on stronger in the second half and tested Gallagher with a couple of long range efforts. The ref who had missed several blatant fouls for both team then seemed to lose control of the game and it became very disjointed and both teams became increasingly frustrated with his wrong decisions and general attitude towards the players. Forest of Dean had two players booked for minor offences and Leanne Jones joined them in the book after her only foul of the game despite being subjected to a number of fouls on herself. The game was very much a midfield battle now and Skinner and L Jones were coping well with the 3 central midfield players of FOD. Tara Rutter got on the end of a corner for the home side but it drifted past the post. The ref then missed another blatant foul on Hulbert that was seemed to be right on the edge of the box and was possibly even inside that would of meant a penalty. Both teams tried hard to create a decent chance that could win the game but both defences remained strong and the game finished 2-2
In the end probably a fair result as Bitton dominated the first half with plenty of chances and FOd came back into the game second half.L Jones, Skinner, Hulbert and Frampton all shw3d some of the form we know they can produce and Bray made a big difference to the side The overall performance was much better from the Bitton girls but that is now 4 games without a win. They will be looking to pick up maximum points next week when they host Cheltenham Town Res
Player of the match-Kirsty Skinner- kept the dangerous Tara Rutter quiet and got forward well on several occasions
Bitton produced their best performance for some time as they were boosted by the quality of Carly Bray who came in at left back for her first start of the season. It was Bray who very prominent in the first half as time and again she got forward well from the back and created chances for the ton. After arriving late and only having a couple of minutes to prepare Bitton started the game really well. Leanne Jones made a couple of surging runs through the middle and Bray was linking up well with Esther Hoszynak down the left feeding Coates and Lisa Frampton. Frampton should have done better but she took too long when presented with a good chance after excellent work from Coates Bray delivered a number of excellent corners which Kirsty Skinner got on the end of and Bitton maybe should have had a penalty as Hosznyal was taking out from behind but the ref waved played on. Forest of Dean showed their attacking potential for the first time as Sam Morse turned and ran at the defence and skipped past Price leaving her a clear run at the Bitton goal. Bray got back to make a challenge but Morse still got a shot away which Gallagher did well to come out and smother. Bitton were still on top and Frampton and Coates were working well together and several crosses were delivered into the box with Bitton not quite being able to get shots away. Hoszynak had a great chance when Nat Hulbert delivered a cross and she found the left winger with time and space inside the area but she hit a weak shot that the keeper easily gathered. Bray then tested the keeper from 40 yards but the ball just drifted over the bar. Bitton did take the lead minutes later after some great work by Frampton and Bray saw Frampton deliver a perfect cross to the far post where Hulbert came steaming in to bundle the ball over the line. Bitton were playing some of their best football of the season now and creating plenty of chances and it was 2-0 soon after as Coates made a great run down the right and was found by a great pass by Skinner, Coates looked to be too wide but she fired in a great strike that went over the keeper for her 9th goal of the season. Bitton were now cruising and looked like extending the lead a few times as Hulbert, Skinner and Hoszynak had shots and then L Jones went on a great mazy run which ended with the FOd Keeper making a great save down to her left. The turning point in the game came 5 minutes before the break as a harmless ball was lofted over the Bitton defence and seemed to be rolling through to Gallagher in goal but despite the ball being 80-20% in her favour she remained rooted to her line and Morse nipped in to poke the ball past her.
It only took 5 minutes of the second half for FOD to equalise and it came in a bizarre fashion. Leanne Jones received treatment after a blatant foul that the ref missed and as Bitton had kicked the ball out Forest of Dean returned it back down the pitch. The ball was not played very hard so Gallagher had to come 30 yards off her line to get the ball but as she came out the two FOD strikers decided to then shut her down despite them supposedly giving the ball back the pressure forced Gallagher to weakly scuff her kick to the opposition and 5 seconds later after a couple of passes the ball was in the net. Bitton almost responded immediately as Bray hit a great strike from near the half way line that the keeper managed to scramble away for a corner. FOD were coming on stronger in the second half and tested Gallagher with a couple of long range efforts. The ref who had missed several blatant fouls for both team then seemed to lose control of the game and it became very disjointed and both teams became increasingly frustrated with his wrong decisions and general attitude towards the players. Forest of Dean had two players booked for minor offences and Leanne Jones joined them in the book after her only foul of the game despite being subjected to a number of fouls on herself. The game was very much a midfield battle now and Skinner and L Jones were coping well with the 3 central midfield players of FOD. Tara Rutter got on the end of a corner for the home side but it drifted past the post. The ref then missed another blatant foul on Hulbert that was seemed to be right on the edge of the box and was possibly even inside that would of meant a penalty. Both teams tried hard to create a decent chance that could win the game but both defences remained strong and the game finished 2-2
In the end probably a fair result as Bitton dominated the first half with plenty of chances and FOd came back into the game second half.L Jones, Skinner, Hulbert and Frampton all shw3d some of the form we know they can produce and Bray made a big difference to the side The overall performance was much better from the Bitton girls but that is now 4 games without a win. They will be looking to pick up maximum points next week when they host Cheltenham Town Res
Player of the match-Kirsty Skinner- kept the dangerous Tara Rutter quiet and got forward well on several occasions
St Nicholas 2-1 Bitton (AET)
Hulbert
Amy Jeffries of St Nicks was a constant threat
Bitton travelled to Division 2 leaders St Nicks expecting a tough game and it proved just that as they defended for the majority of this game. They put in a far better performance than in previous weeks but the fact that Bittons best players were the back four and keeper Chloe Gallagher show that st Nicks dominated possesion and were in the end deserved winners coming out on top 2-1 after extra time.
Bitton were gratefull to Laura Tugwell for coming back to help out at left back after Nat Hole withdrew from the squad on Saturday night and she along with Robyn Scrase, meg Price and Char Knight had excellent games as they tried to cope with the constant pressure applied by the attacking st Nicks.
Bitton were warned pre match about the attacking talents of St Nicks and Becky Rexworthy, Amy Jeffries and Adelle Hooper in paticular. It was this trio who were a constant danger showing good pace and skill and linking play well all afternoon. The game got underway on a beautiful Sunny afternoon with Bitton having to deal with the strong sun behind the St Nicks goal. After a little bit of midfield jostling with St Nicks having the majority of possesion and pushing Bitton back it was the Ton who took an early lead with the first clear cut cance of the game. Tugwell had got forward from left back and she played a great cross into the box where Nat Hulbert had ghosted in from the right and showed great bravery as she planted a firm header as Katie lane in the St Nicks came out trying to punch the ball. the goal did not seem to change to pattern of the game and it was St Nicks who continued to press forward. Hooper missed a header as she seemed to turn her back on the ball before a great run and cross from Jeffries produced a sitter at the far post for Saffy keetly but she mis hit her shot swide. Hooper then made ground on the inside right before sending a thunderous left foot strike against the upright with Gallagher well beaten.Price made a number of important challenges as Jeffries and Rexworthy began to link up. Rexworthy was proving to be a real handfull as she showed great strength and pace before playing a nice pass into the feet of Jeffries who tested Gallaghers handling from long range. Hopper supplied a few more dangerous crosses and Cydney Ramsay shot over from the edge of the box but the Bitton defence were working hard to restrict the space and forcing St Nicks into long range efforts. Leanne Jones & Kirsty skinner were working hard in the middle of the pitch having a good battle with ramsay and Amy Ford and Amber Coates & Lisa Frampton were trying to feed of any scraps upfront. coates found a bit of space as she skinned the tall Indya gallagher for pace before making ground down the left but she was shut out by a great covering tackle from Rosie Harris.Price had a decent chance to extend Bittons lead when she got on the end of a corner but she could not direct her header on goal and Rexworthy broke away and produced agreat shot that Gallagher once again saved.Coates played a ball over the top and Frampton looked favourite to get on the end of it but the St Nicks keeper Lane came rushing out to thwart the danger.The half ended with more neat football from the home side and Hooper hit another shot that saw Gallagher once again in the way. St Nicks had been well on top but some strong, brave defending and a bit of luck from Bitton had kept them out and it was hoped they would begin to get frustrated.
Hooper had already volleyed wide from a corner before she drew the sides level in the 50th minute.Jeffries once again showd good pace and skill down the right and she delivered an excellent cross which Hooper got the slightest of touches on and the ball squirmed through Gallaghers legs to give St Nicks that all important goal. Many people thought st Nicks would go onto win the game comfortably but Bitton showed great charecter and came back into the game slightly after this. St Nicks were still on top and pressing but Bitton started to see more of the ball and begin to have better spells of possesion in the St Nicks half. Gallagher made another save from Rexworthy before Skinner was inches away from getting to a Coates pass first but once again Lane was quick of her line and stopped any danger. Next up was a key moment in the game as the referee blew for a foul on Coates by Jess Wilson. despite the offense occuring clearly 3 or 4 yards inside th epenalty area the referee signalled for a free kick right on the edge of the box. The resulting Coates free kick was headed away to safety by Wilson. Lane was again quick of her line to gather a long Scrase free kick before Gallagher once again denied Rexworthy with a wonder save low down to her right. Just as everyone was settling for extra time St Nicks were given one more chance and only Jeffries herself will know how she managed to head over from 2 yards out after Gallagher had missed the corner. It looked far easier to score and would have won the game as there was not even time for the goal Kick to be taken as the ref blew his whistle for the end of Full time.
Both teams were now looking tired as they kicked of the first half of extra time. St Nicks did take the lead early on though and it was that girl Hooper again who proved to be the key as she wriggled free of a couple of challenges and hit a left foot drive towards goal. It was a good strike but gallagher may be a tad dissapointed she did not move as the ball was fairly central in the goal. Harris then made a majestic tackle as Frampton looked like she had got a clear run on goal. There may have been a hint of a penalty for St Nicks as Jeffries made ground into the Bitton area but by staying on her feat the referee did not even see the foul.
St nicks should have wrapped the game up at the start of the second period as gallagher was glued to her line and Rexworthy chased a long bouncing ball which looked easier to score but she volleyed over under heavy pressure from the excellent Price. Sub Sharifa James maybe should have done better as she picked up a loose ball on the edge of the box but her weak left foot shot was easilly saved by the keeper. Gallagher learned from her earlier mistake as she was quick of her line this time to deny Jeffries and Scrase again cleared the ball.James won a great header to put Coates in on goal in the inside left position but her attempted lob with her left foot drifted over the bar. Bitton had one more chance when a free kick was played over the defence but St Nicks had held a high enough line to allow Lane to come and gather.
Another defeat for Bitton but a much improved attitude and workrate from the team who scrapped and battled for 120 minutes of football against a good side. No complaints the better team won and we wish St Nicks good luck in the next round
Player of the match-Robyn scrase/ Meg Price- Under constant pressure but defended for there lives and showed great attitude
Bitton were gratefull to Laura Tugwell for coming back to help out at left back after Nat Hole withdrew from the squad on Saturday night and she along with Robyn Scrase, meg Price and Char Knight had excellent games as they tried to cope with the constant pressure applied by the attacking st Nicks.
Bitton were warned pre match about the attacking talents of St Nicks and Becky Rexworthy, Amy Jeffries and Adelle Hooper in paticular. It was this trio who were a constant danger showing good pace and skill and linking play well all afternoon. The game got underway on a beautiful Sunny afternoon with Bitton having to deal with the strong sun behind the St Nicks goal. After a little bit of midfield jostling with St Nicks having the majority of possesion and pushing Bitton back it was the Ton who took an early lead with the first clear cut cance of the game. Tugwell had got forward from left back and she played a great cross into the box where Nat Hulbert had ghosted in from the right and showed great bravery as she planted a firm header as Katie lane in the St Nicks came out trying to punch the ball. the goal did not seem to change to pattern of the game and it was St Nicks who continued to press forward. Hooper missed a header as she seemed to turn her back on the ball before a great run and cross from Jeffries produced a sitter at the far post for Saffy keetly but she mis hit her shot swide. Hooper then made ground on the inside right before sending a thunderous left foot strike against the upright with Gallagher well beaten.Price made a number of important challenges as Jeffries and Rexworthy began to link up. Rexworthy was proving to be a real handfull as she showed great strength and pace before playing a nice pass into the feet of Jeffries who tested Gallaghers handling from long range. Hopper supplied a few more dangerous crosses and Cydney Ramsay shot over from the edge of the box but the Bitton defence were working hard to restrict the space and forcing St Nicks into long range efforts. Leanne Jones & Kirsty skinner were working hard in the middle of the pitch having a good battle with ramsay and Amy Ford and Amber Coates & Lisa Frampton were trying to feed of any scraps upfront. coates found a bit of space as she skinned the tall Indya gallagher for pace before making ground down the left but she was shut out by a great covering tackle from Rosie Harris.Price had a decent chance to extend Bittons lead when she got on the end of a corner but she could not direct her header on goal and Rexworthy broke away and produced agreat shot that Gallagher once again saved.Coates played a ball over the top and Frampton looked favourite to get on the end of it but the St Nicks keeper Lane came rushing out to thwart the danger.The half ended with more neat football from the home side and Hooper hit another shot that saw Gallagher once again in the way. St Nicks had been well on top but some strong, brave defending and a bit of luck from Bitton had kept them out and it was hoped they would begin to get frustrated.
Hooper had already volleyed wide from a corner before she drew the sides level in the 50th minute.Jeffries once again showd good pace and skill down the right and she delivered an excellent cross which Hooper got the slightest of touches on and the ball squirmed through Gallaghers legs to give St Nicks that all important goal. Many people thought st Nicks would go onto win the game comfortably but Bitton showed great charecter and came back into the game slightly after this. St Nicks were still on top and pressing but Bitton started to see more of the ball and begin to have better spells of possesion in the St Nicks half. Gallagher made another save from Rexworthy before Skinner was inches away from getting to a Coates pass first but once again Lane was quick of her line and stopped any danger. Next up was a key moment in the game as the referee blew for a foul on Coates by Jess Wilson. despite the offense occuring clearly 3 or 4 yards inside th epenalty area the referee signalled for a free kick right on the edge of the box. The resulting Coates free kick was headed away to safety by Wilson. Lane was again quick of her line to gather a long Scrase free kick before Gallagher once again denied Rexworthy with a wonder save low down to her right. Just as everyone was settling for extra time St Nicks were given one more chance and only Jeffries herself will know how she managed to head over from 2 yards out after Gallagher had missed the corner. It looked far easier to score and would have won the game as there was not even time for the goal Kick to be taken as the ref blew his whistle for the end of Full time.
Both teams were now looking tired as they kicked of the first half of extra time. St Nicks did take the lead early on though and it was that girl Hooper again who proved to be the key as she wriggled free of a couple of challenges and hit a left foot drive towards goal. It was a good strike but gallagher may be a tad dissapointed she did not move as the ball was fairly central in the goal. Harris then made a majestic tackle as Frampton looked like she had got a clear run on goal. There may have been a hint of a penalty for St Nicks as Jeffries made ground into the Bitton area but by staying on her feat the referee did not even see the foul.
St nicks should have wrapped the game up at the start of the second period as gallagher was glued to her line and Rexworthy chased a long bouncing ball which looked easier to score but she volleyed over under heavy pressure from the excellent Price. Sub Sharifa James maybe should have done better as she picked up a loose ball on the edge of the box but her weak left foot shot was easilly saved by the keeper. Gallagher learned from her earlier mistake as she was quick of her line this time to deny Jeffries and Scrase again cleared the ball.James won a great header to put Coates in on goal in the inside left position but her attempted lob with her left foot drifted over the bar. Bitton had one more chance when a free kick was played over the defence but St Nicks had held a high enough line to allow Lane to come and gather.
Another defeat for Bitton but a much improved attitude and workrate from the team who scrapped and battled for 120 minutes of football against a good side. No complaints the better team won and we wish St Nicks good luck in the next round
Player of the match-Robyn scrase/ Meg Price- Under constant pressure but defended for there lives and showed great attitude
Cheltenham Civil Service 2-1 Bitton
Coates
Bitton continued to struggle at the higher level as once again they produced a performance lacking any passion, endeavour or work rate and as a result went down to there first defeat at the hands of Cheltenham Civil Service. Bitton had taken the lead through Amber Coates but two wonder goals from Cheltenham Civil service gave them the points.
Bitton started the day with the news that Becky Hurst will miss the rest of the season due to falling pregnant and were also missing last seasons top scorer Sharifa James. All of the ill players climbed out of there sick beds to play and Char night made it back from holiday in time.
Playing against the strong wind Bitton knew they would be in for a difficult half and Cheltenham Civil service started really well with there danger player and top scorer Gemma Riley looking a real threat. There captain was dominating the midfield and Bitton were really struggling to come to terms with the game. A couple of long balls were cleared by Price and Scrase before Riley fired a cross shot in that just went wide as Cheltenham looked to open the scoring. Bitton first real attempt came when L Jones made ground down the right and her attempted cross swerved off her boot and nearly caught the keeper out as it just drifted wide of the far post. Skinner and L Jones began to come into the came as the half went on as the strong wind meant the game became quite scrappy and a real midfield battle. B Jones forced a great save from the home keeper with a strong drive from the edge of the box Cheltenham knocked in a couple of decent corners that Bitton managed to scramble away and Gallagher in goal was indecisive when coming of her line which nearly let the striker in but the ball just ran away from her. Bitton were denied a few time by the offside flag and Coates played a great ball through to Frampton but she was snuffed out by the striker. Cheltenham had a couple of long range efforts saved by Gallagher but just as they half was drawing to a close Bitton took a shock lead against the run of play with and excellent passing goal. Skinner laid the ball into B Jones who played a great through ball into the bath of Frampton who in turn skipped inside a couple of players and rolled the ball across to Coates on the edge of the box who hit her left foot shot first tie into the net.
After soaking up all the pressure in the first half against the wind and taking a shock lead into the second half Bitton really should have pushed on but they looked slow and lethargic all half and once again failed to do the basics required in a game of football. The game was still very tight between two evenly matched sides and it was clear the next goal would be important it looked like Bitton would grab it when a great pass from Skinner found Coates one on one but her low shot was well saved by the keeper and Cheltenham cleared. Within 30 seconds of Bitton nearly going 2-0 up the scores were level as the impressive Hayley Wheeler who had tormented Bitton all day down the left twisted and turned in the inside left position before unleashing a rocket of a shot into the far corner. Coates had a left foot shot go over and Hulbert failed to get a shot away with the ball at her feet only 8 yards out as Bitton pressed for a winner. There seemed no danger as Cheltenham won a throw in on there right and side but nobody picked up the ever dangerous Riley and she received the ball and span and hit the ball first time on the volley, not sure if it was a cross or shot but Gallagher was motionless in the goal as the ball sailed over her head for a goals that proved to be the winner. Bitton tried to push for another goal but never really created another chance in the final 10 minutes.
Another poor performance from a Bitton side who need to get back to basics and start working harder and playing as a team if they are to get anything from this season.Next week they face the mammoth task of a GFA cup game against rampant St Nicks side who are scoring goals for fun and look likely to romp Division 2 this season.
Player of the match-Meg Price-Apart from Scrase and L Jones the only player to perform anywhere near the level expected..
Bitton started the day with the news that Becky Hurst will miss the rest of the season due to falling pregnant and were also missing last seasons top scorer Sharifa James. All of the ill players climbed out of there sick beds to play and Char night made it back from holiday in time.
Playing against the strong wind Bitton knew they would be in for a difficult half and Cheltenham Civil service started really well with there danger player and top scorer Gemma Riley looking a real threat. There captain was dominating the midfield and Bitton were really struggling to come to terms with the game. A couple of long balls were cleared by Price and Scrase before Riley fired a cross shot in that just went wide as Cheltenham looked to open the scoring. Bitton first real attempt came when L Jones made ground down the right and her attempted cross swerved off her boot and nearly caught the keeper out as it just drifted wide of the far post. Skinner and L Jones began to come into the came as the half went on as the strong wind meant the game became quite scrappy and a real midfield battle. B Jones forced a great save from the home keeper with a strong drive from the edge of the box Cheltenham knocked in a couple of decent corners that Bitton managed to scramble away and Gallagher in goal was indecisive when coming of her line which nearly let the striker in but the ball just ran away from her. Bitton were denied a few time by the offside flag and Coates played a great ball through to Frampton but she was snuffed out by the striker. Cheltenham had a couple of long range efforts saved by Gallagher but just as they half was drawing to a close Bitton took a shock lead against the run of play with and excellent passing goal. Skinner laid the ball into B Jones who played a great through ball into the bath of Frampton who in turn skipped inside a couple of players and rolled the ball across to Coates on the edge of the box who hit her left foot shot first tie into the net.
After soaking up all the pressure in the first half against the wind and taking a shock lead into the second half Bitton really should have pushed on but they looked slow and lethargic all half and once again failed to do the basics required in a game of football. The game was still very tight between two evenly matched sides and it was clear the next goal would be important it looked like Bitton would grab it when a great pass from Skinner found Coates one on one but her low shot was well saved by the keeper and Cheltenham cleared. Within 30 seconds of Bitton nearly going 2-0 up the scores were level as the impressive Hayley Wheeler who had tormented Bitton all day down the left twisted and turned in the inside left position before unleashing a rocket of a shot into the far corner. Coates had a left foot shot go over and Hulbert failed to get a shot away with the ball at her feet only 8 yards out as Bitton pressed for a winner. There seemed no danger as Cheltenham won a throw in on there right and side but nobody picked up the ever dangerous Riley and she received the ball and span and hit the ball first time on the volley, not sure if it was a cross or shot but Gallagher was motionless in the goal as the ball sailed over her head for a goals that proved to be the winner. Bitton tried to push for another goal but never really created another chance in the final 10 minutes.
Another poor performance from a Bitton side who need to get back to basics and start working harder and playing as a team if they are to get anything from this season.Next week they face the mammoth task of a GFA cup game against rampant St Nicks side who are scoring goals for fun and look likely to romp Division 2 this season.
Player of the match-Meg Price-Apart from Scrase and L Jones the only player to perform anywhere near the level expected..
Bitton 0 v 0 Bristol & West
Action in the B&W area
Bitton dropped there first points of the season as the played out a 0-0 draw with Bristol & west in a scrappy game where Bitton never really got going and produced a disappointing performance given the way they have started the season. After averaging nearly 6 goals a game so far this season Bitton looked short of ideas in the attacking third as time and again the experienced Bristol & West defence snuffed out any danger.
Bitton were missing several players who were away and Robyn Scrase came back into the side with Laura Tugwell & Jess Rudge-Hamlin coming in for there first starts this season. Bitton knew they would be in for a tough afternoon against a Bristol & West side boasting plenty of experienced players. Bitton started the game fairly well and were paid a good deal of respect from Bristol & west when they set out with only 1 upfront trying to restrict Bitton the space they need to get there passing game going. Probably the best chance of the entire game came in only the 3rd minute of the match as Becky Hurst hit a deep free kick from the left and Robyn Scrase found herself unmarked and with a free header only 5 yards out but she took her eye of the ball and her header trickled wide. B & W were playing with plenty of bodies behind the ball but looking dangerous on the break ,as both there wingers were showing great pace and looking very direct. A strong run from Coates in the 15th minute down the right wing saw her hit a great strike from a tight angle that the keeper just managed to tip onto the post and she got lucky when the rebound bounced straight to her with Frampton waiting to tap home. It was all Bitton but they were struggling to get any passing movements going as B&W defended very well as they sat very deep not allowing Bitton the space to get in behind them. A lovely flowing move involving B Jones, Hulbert, L Jones & Coates saw them release Rudge-Hamlin but she hit her shot at the side netting. Bitton continued to press and a fine pass from B Jones released Coates who finally broke the back line and faced the keeper 1on 1 but the keeper stayed tall and as Coates tried a lob and easily saved. The first 30 minutes had been all Bitton but they had failed to put away any chances which would have taken some of the pressure off and B&W started to come back into the game now. They came very close when they were awarded a free kick right on the edge of the box and the ball was shifted to the left before a rasping drive just clipped the top of the cross bar. Just before half time Gallagher in the Bitton goal was called into action when B & W broke through the middle and hit a low shot but Gallagher stuck out a right foot to make a good save.
Despite there dominance Bitton had not played well in the first period and had given B & W plenty of encouragement and it was the away side who were to dominate the second half.. B & W were on top for large periods but did create too many clear cut chances. The had a header wide from a good cross and a couple of long range efforts before there striker broke through on goal only to be denied by and inch perfect tackle from the recovering Nah Hole who was one of the few Bitton players to be playing near the level expected.. Tugwell went close from a Bitton corner before a break down the left from B & W saw a good cross into the box but once again Hole was there. The game sparked into life on 70 minutes when L Jones made a late tackle on here opposite number which resulted in the girls squaring up, unfortunately the B & W girl was seen to spit in the face of L Jones which was spotted by the referee and resulted in a Red card. L Jones was booked for the tackle that prompted the incident. Bitton now had 20 minutes left to play with an extra player and really should have pushed on and made the numerical advantage count but it was B & W who continued to dominate as Bitton time and again looked lethargic and sloppy in possession. Coates was looking Bittons best chance of a goal with a couple of strong runs but she lacked support at time and it was clear from the side lines it was going to be one of those days. B & W looked to have a very good claim for a penalty when Hole seemed to barge straight into the back of the attacker in the box but the ref waved the play on. Bitton looked lost of ideas and there afternoon was summed up when the referee awarded a free kick late on which Hurst weakly scuffed wide of the goal.
A draw was a fair result in this game with both teams having spells but defences were on top. Bitton will need to improve drastically next week when they host Cheltenham Civil service
Player of the Match-Nat Hole-Looked strong and made some important tackles on a day when a lot of players failed to perform.
Bitton were missing several players who were away and Robyn Scrase came back into the side with Laura Tugwell & Jess Rudge-Hamlin coming in for there first starts this season. Bitton knew they would be in for a tough afternoon against a Bristol & West side boasting plenty of experienced players. Bitton started the game fairly well and were paid a good deal of respect from Bristol & west when they set out with only 1 upfront trying to restrict Bitton the space they need to get there passing game going. Probably the best chance of the entire game came in only the 3rd minute of the match as Becky Hurst hit a deep free kick from the left and Robyn Scrase found herself unmarked and with a free header only 5 yards out but she took her eye of the ball and her header trickled wide. B & W were playing with plenty of bodies behind the ball but looking dangerous on the break ,as both there wingers were showing great pace and looking very direct. A strong run from Coates in the 15th minute down the right wing saw her hit a great strike from a tight angle that the keeper just managed to tip onto the post and she got lucky when the rebound bounced straight to her with Frampton waiting to tap home. It was all Bitton but they were struggling to get any passing movements going as B&W defended very well as they sat very deep not allowing Bitton the space to get in behind them. A lovely flowing move involving B Jones, Hulbert, L Jones & Coates saw them release Rudge-Hamlin but she hit her shot at the side netting. Bitton continued to press and a fine pass from B Jones released Coates who finally broke the back line and faced the keeper 1on 1 but the keeper stayed tall and as Coates tried a lob and easily saved. The first 30 minutes had been all Bitton but they had failed to put away any chances which would have taken some of the pressure off and B&W started to come back into the game now. They came very close when they were awarded a free kick right on the edge of the box and the ball was shifted to the left before a rasping drive just clipped the top of the cross bar. Just before half time Gallagher in the Bitton goal was called into action when B & W broke through the middle and hit a low shot but Gallagher stuck out a right foot to make a good save.
Despite there dominance Bitton had not played well in the first period and had given B & W plenty of encouragement and it was the away side who were to dominate the second half.. B & W were on top for large periods but did create too many clear cut chances. The had a header wide from a good cross and a couple of long range efforts before there striker broke through on goal only to be denied by and inch perfect tackle from the recovering Nah Hole who was one of the few Bitton players to be playing near the level expected.. Tugwell went close from a Bitton corner before a break down the left from B & W saw a good cross into the box but once again Hole was there. The game sparked into life on 70 minutes when L Jones made a late tackle on here opposite number which resulted in the girls squaring up, unfortunately the B & W girl was seen to spit in the face of L Jones which was spotted by the referee and resulted in a Red card. L Jones was booked for the tackle that prompted the incident. Bitton now had 20 minutes left to play with an extra player and really should have pushed on and made the numerical advantage count but it was B & W who continued to dominate as Bitton time and again looked lethargic and sloppy in possession. Coates was looking Bittons best chance of a goal with a couple of strong runs but she lacked support at time and it was clear from the side lines it was going to be one of those days. B & W looked to have a very good claim for a penalty when Hole seemed to barge straight into the back of the attacker in the box but the ref waved the play on. Bitton looked lost of ideas and there afternoon was summed up when the referee awarded a free kick late on which Hurst weakly scuffed wide of the goal.
A draw was a fair result in this game with both teams having spells but defences were on top. Bitton will need to improve drastically next week when they host Cheltenham Civil service
Player of the Match-Nat Hole-Looked strong and made some important tackles on a day when a lot of players failed to perform.
Bitton 5 v 1 Dursley
Coates(2) B Jones, Frampton, Knight
Hurst whips in another corner
Bitton made it 3 from 3 as they eventually ran out 5-1 winners against Dursley .In a scrappy game that saw them miss plenty of chances that would have seen them have a much more comfortable game it was goals from Amber Coates (2) Lisa Frampton, Becky Jones and a rare Char Knight strike that gave Bitton the win and strengthen there position at the top of the table.
Bitton made one change as Nat Hole came in for her first start of the season in place of Robyn Scrase at centre half and it seemed to make little difference to Bittons play as they came flying out the traps.
They forced several corners early on and Price was inches away from connecting with a Hurst delivery to the far stick. A feature of the game was the Dursley offside trap that were playing a very high line and despite it catching Bitton out on a few occasions, in general Bitton were playing it well and the speedy defender had to make several timely challenges as Coates and Frampton both closed in on goal looking to open the scoring. Becky Jones maybe should have done better when she volleyed over from the edge of the box and Hulbert just missed out on the chance to pull the trigger as she was shut out on the edge of the box. Bitton were forced into a shuffle of the pack as Hulbert had to be withdrawn due to illness ( Cough- Hangover- cough) she was replaced by Scrase who went to the back with Knight moving up to occupy the right wingback spot. Bitton continued to dominate the game and Coates missed a good chance after a nice ball down the line from Knight before Bitton took a deserved lead. Once again it was Coates who beat the offside trap and collected a pass from B Jones in her stride and lifted the ball over the keeper as she came flying out. Coates missed another 2 chances after beating several players herself before Bitton doubled there advantage as Frampton was first to the ball after her blocked shot and she smashed the ball home from 12 yards out. Despite dominating the game Bitton were not at there best and were at times very sloppy in possession with no talking and a lack of organization. Once again a lack in communication forced Price to give away a needless corner and Bitton were made to pay as the Dursley winger Nat Pooton curled the corner straight in over the head of a stranded Gallagher. Bitton missed a few more half chances before the half time whistle came.
After a reminder of the standards they have set themselves at half time Bitton came out with a much better attitude and hunger for the game. Every player wanted the ball and the passing and movement was much better than they had shown in the first half. They thought they had increased there lead early in the second half when the ball took a couple of ricochets and landed at the feet of B Jones who slotted home but she was denied by the offside flag despite clearly being well onside. Hurst came into the game more in the second half but Bitton were struggling to get the ball out to her. Frampton tested the keeper after a great run and Coates again was denied by another fine save from the Dursley stopper. Hole, Price and Scrase were all looking rock solid at the back which was allowing Knight and Hurst the chance to bomb forward. Hurst delivered a couple of quality corners that Bitton really should have finished and then Skinner tried to test the keeper from long distance but only managed to test the cars driving along the road behind the goal as she skied her shot high and wide. Bitton looked certain to extend there lead when another good cross from Hurst found Coates who showed a great touch and smashed the ball on the volley hard at goal but the keeper produced a remarkable save to palm the ball away.L Jones was coming more into the game and starting to cause problems and it was her inch perfect pass that released Hurst but she shot just wide. Bitton did finally create a gap in the score line as they got there 3rd when another Hurst run saw her square the ball to B Jones who took a touch and fired low into the corner. Bitton seemed to relax again and continued to pepper the Dursley goal Coates missed two 1 on 1 ‘s when in plenty of space and B Jones repeated her action as she went clear but fired wide. Coates grabbed her second of the afternoon as again she raced clear from a B Jones pass and this time fired low to beat the keeper. Knight seemed to be enjoying the freedom of her more advanced role and she tested the keeper with a dipping volley from 25 yards before B Jones had another pop shot at the keeper. Moment of the game came on 80 minutes when after another coates shot which the keeper could not handle Knight was quickest to the rebound and she drilled her shot into the roof of the net for her First goal in the colours of Bitton to spark wild celebrations.Bitton could have grabbed a couple more late on but Dursley defended well
Another game we dominated but once again we were very wasteful in front of goal. Better teams could make us pay. Dursley were restricted to only a couple of long range efforts all day and the Defence seem to be getting back to the level of last season.
Player of the Match-Char Knight- Adapted to a new position well and capped a good performance off with a rare goal. Not too sure about the airplane/dance off /throw up celebration though.
Ugga Bugga says 6-What! What! What ! What!
Bitton made one change as Nat Hole came in for her first start of the season in place of Robyn Scrase at centre half and it seemed to make little difference to Bittons play as they came flying out the traps.
They forced several corners early on and Price was inches away from connecting with a Hurst delivery to the far stick. A feature of the game was the Dursley offside trap that were playing a very high line and despite it catching Bitton out on a few occasions, in general Bitton were playing it well and the speedy defender had to make several timely challenges as Coates and Frampton both closed in on goal looking to open the scoring. Becky Jones maybe should have done better when she volleyed over from the edge of the box and Hulbert just missed out on the chance to pull the trigger as she was shut out on the edge of the box. Bitton were forced into a shuffle of the pack as Hulbert had to be withdrawn due to illness ( Cough- Hangover- cough) she was replaced by Scrase who went to the back with Knight moving up to occupy the right wingback spot. Bitton continued to dominate the game and Coates missed a good chance after a nice ball down the line from Knight before Bitton took a deserved lead. Once again it was Coates who beat the offside trap and collected a pass from B Jones in her stride and lifted the ball over the keeper as she came flying out. Coates missed another 2 chances after beating several players herself before Bitton doubled there advantage as Frampton was first to the ball after her blocked shot and she smashed the ball home from 12 yards out. Despite dominating the game Bitton were not at there best and were at times very sloppy in possession with no talking and a lack of organization. Once again a lack in communication forced Price to give away a needless corner and Bitton were made to pay as the Dursley winger Nat Pooton curled the corner straight in over the head of a stranded Gallagher. Bitton missed a few more half chances before the half time whistle came.
After a reminder of the standards they have set themselves at half time Bitton came out with a much better attitude and hunger for the game. Every player wanted the ball and the passing and movement was much better than they had shown in the first half. They thought they had increased there lead early in the second half when the ball took a couple of ricochets and landed at the feet of B Jones who slotted home but she was denied by the offside flag despite clearly being well onside. Hurst came into the game more in the second half but Bitton were struggling to get the ball out to her. Frampton tested the keeper after a great run and Coates again was denied by another fine save from the Dursley stopper. Hole, Price and Scrase were all looking rock solid at the back which was allowing Knight and Hurst the chance to bomb forward. Hurst delivered a couple of quality corners that Bitton really should have finished and then Skinner tried to test the keeper from long distance but only managed to test the cars driving along the road behind the goal as she skied her shot high and wide. Bitton looked certain to extend there lead when another good cross from Hurst found Coates who showed a great touch and smashed the ball on the volley hard at goal but the keeper produced a remarkable save to palm the ball away.L Jones was coming more into the game and starting to cause problems and it was her inch perfect pass that released Hurst but she shot just wide. Bitton did finally create a gap in the score line as they got there 3rd when another Hurst run saw her square the ball to B Jones who took a touch and fired low into the corner. Bitton seemed to relax again and continued to pepper the Dursley goal Coates missed two 1 on 1 ‘s when in plenty of space and B Jones repeated her action as she went clear but fired wide. Coates grabbed her second of the afternoon as again she raced clear from a B Jones pass and this time fired low to beat the keeper. Knight seemed to be enjoying the freedom of her more advanced role and she tested the keeper with a dipping volley from 25 yards before B Jones had another pop shot at the keeper. Moment of the game came on 80 minutes when after another coates shot which the keeper could not handle Knight was quickest to the rebound and she drilled her shot into the roof of the net for her First goal in the colours of Bitton to spark wild celebrations.Bitton could have grabbed a couple more late on but Dursley defended well
Another game we dominated but once again we were very wasteful in front of goal. Better teams could make us pay. Dursley were restricted to only a couple of long range efforts all day and the Defence seem to be getting back to the level of last season.
Player of the Match-Char Knight- Adapted to a new position well and capped a good performance off with a rare goal. Not too sure about the airplane/dance off /throw up celebration though.
Ugga Bugga says 6-What! What! What ! What!
Cheltenham town Res 0 v 13 Bitton
Frampton (5) Coates(4) B Jones, Skinner, L Jones, James
Amber grabbed 4
Bitton equaled there highest ever score as they came away from there first away game in Division 1 with a very comfortable 13-0 win against Cheltenham Town Res. Bitton were totally dominant for the entire 90 minutes with Cheltenham not managing a single effort on goal all afternoon and Bitton constantly peppering the Cheltenham keeper with shots from the 1st minute to the last.
On a gloriously sunny afternoon Bitton started the game with the exact same starting side that beat Forest Of dean the previous week.It was the away side in there change strip of Yellow & Green who came racing out the blocks and began there assault on the Cheltenham goal. In the 2nd Minute A coner from Hurst was met by Frampton but her header beat the keeper but not the near post and 30 seconds later Frampton was again denied by the woodwork as she hit a thunderous volley that smashed against the bar. The woodwork again proved to be Bittons biggest obstacle as L Jones tried a long range effort but the ball bounced back off the bar and dropped into the keepers arms. Bitton continued to move the ball quickly and with Price,Scrase and Knight in commanding form it was wave after wave of attacks. Skinner,B Jones and L Jones were finding good pockets of space and feeding Coates and Frampton who were looking really dangerous. More chances came as Coates fed Framton who lifted the ball over and Coates had a shot saved by the busy keeper. 20 minutes gone and the scre still 0-0 Bitton were starting to get frustrated but it was clear the first goal would relax them and lead to more. After Scrase had headed a corner just wide bitton finally got the openening goal as Knight got forward well down the right and delivered a dangerous ball into the box where Coates managed to wriggle free of her markers to stab the ball home. Frampton had another shot saved before Bitton really stamped there authority on the game with a 4 goal burst in under 10 minutes. It was 2-0 as Frampton got her first of the afternoon from a Coates cross before Coates herself chased a Price ball over the top and drilled the ball home.Frampton cooly finished of a 1 on 1 and then smashed the ball home from the edge of the box for a quick fire hattrick.After a series of excellent corners from Hurst where Bitton went close it was fitting that they finally got a goal from a set piece as Skinner climbed highest and powered her header home to make it 6-0 at half time.
Bitton started the second half against the wind but it made little differance to there dominance of the game as they continued to pour bodies forward in search of more goals. They did not have to wait long as Hulbert crossed and B Jones hit her shot first time into the bottom corner. Skinner then made ground into the box and her cross was handled by the defender giving Bitton a penalty which L Jones confidently smashed home. Bitton then made a number of changes with Hoszynak replacing Skinner and James coming on for Hulbert. Cheltenham were now looking tired and Bitton continued to pile forward in numbers. Substitue Hoszynak nearly scored with her first touch as she met another Hurst corner with a firm header that was cleared off the line. Nat Hole then came on for her first appearance of the season as she replaced Knight and Bitton then scored again when last season league top scorer James got her first of the season as she volleyed in another corner. Bitton made it 10-0 when a great quick free kick from L Jones put Coates clear and she showed real class to loft the ball over the keeper for her hattrick.She did not wait long to get another as the next minute she ran clear again and hit her shot early low into the corner.After a quiet second half Frampton came to life in the final few moments as firstly she latched onto a long ball to finish well and then she wrapped up the scoring with her 5th and Bittons 13th when she colledcted a B Jones pass and drilled the ball into the bottom corner.
Strange feeling as we picked up a 13-0 win without really firing on all cylinders. Some good goals but there is still definately more to come from this team and against the better teams we will need to be more ruthless infront of goal.
Player of the match-Robyn Scrase- Strange to give it to a defender when you win 13-0 but another excellent performance from Scrase who has come on so much since last season
On a gloriously sunny afternoon Bitton started the game with the exact same starting side that beat Forest Of dean the previous week.It was the away side in there change strip of Yellow & Green who came racing out the blocks and began there assault on the Cheltenham goal. In the 2nd Minute A coner from Hurst was met by Frampton but her header beat the keeper but not the near post and 30 seconds later Frampton was again denied by the woodwork as she hit a thunderous volley that smashed against the bar. The woodwork again proved to be Bittons biggest obstacle as L Jones tried a long range effort but the ball bounced back off the bar and dropped into the keepers arms. Bitton continued to move the ball quickly and with Price,Scrase and Knight in commanding form it was wave after wave of attacks. Skinner,B Jones and L Jones were finding good pockets of space and feeding Coates and Frampton who were looking really dangerous. More chances came as Coates fed Framton who lifted the ball over and Coates had a shot saved by the busy keeper. 20 minutes gone and the scre still 0-0 Bitton were starting to get frustrated but it was clear the first goal would relax them and lead to more. After Scrase had headed a corner just wide bitton finally got the openening goal as Knight got forward well down the right and delivered a dangerous ball into the box where Coates managed to wriggle free of her markers to stab the ball home. Frampton had another shot saved before Bitton really stamped there authority on the game with a 4 goal burst in under 10 minutes. It was 2-0 as Frampton got her first of the afternoon from a Coates cross before Coates herself chased a Price ball over the top and drilled the ball home.Frampton cooly finished of a 1 on 1 and then smashed the ball home from the edge of the box for a quick fire hattrick.After a series of excellent corners from Hurst where Bitton went close it was fitting that they finally got a goal from a set piece as Skinner climbed highest and powered her header home to make it 6-0 at half time.
Bitton started the second half against the wind but it made little differance to there dominance of the game as they continued to pour bodies forward in search of more goals. They did not have to wait long as Hulbert crossed and B Jones hit her shot first time into the bottom corner. Skinner then made ground into the box and her cross was handled by the defender giving Bitton a penalty which L Jones confidently smashed home. Bitton then made a number of changes with Hoszynak replacing Skinner and James coming on for Hulbert. Cheltenham were now looking tired and Bitton continued to pile forward in numbers. Substitue Hoszynak nearly scored with her first touch as she met another Hurst corner with a firm header that was cleared off the line. Nat Hole then came on for her first appearance of the season as she replaced Knight and Bitton then scored again when last season league top scorer James got her first of the season as she volleyed in another corner. Bitton made it 10-0 when a great quick free kick from L Jones put Coates clear and she showed real class to loft the ball over the keeper for her hattrick.She did not wait long to get another as the next minute she ran clear again and hit her shot early low into the corner.After a quiet second half Frampton came to life in the final few moments as firstly she latched onto a long ball to finish well and then she wrapped up the scoring with her 5th and Bittons 13th when she colledcted a B Jones pass and drilled the ball into the bottom corner.
Strange feeling as we picked up a 13-0 win without really firing on all cylinders. Some good goals but there is still definately more to come from this team and against the better teams we will need to be more ruthless infront of goal.
Player of the match-Robyn Scrase- Strange to give it to a defender when you win 13-0 but another excellent performance from Scrase who has come on so much since last season
Bitton 4 v 3 Forest Of dean
Frampton(2) B Jones
Coates
Kirsty did a good job in stopping the excellent Rutter
Bitton started life in Division 1 by taking the 3 points against last season’s runner up Forest Of Dean. Goals from Lisa Frampton (2) & Becky Jones had shot Bitton into a 3-0 lead before some slack defending let the away side back into and they hit 3 quick goals to level the scores. Amber Coates then scored a last minute penalty to clinch the win that Bittons performance had deserved.
Bitton started the game with Chloe Gallagher in goal a back 3 of Meg Price, Charlotte Knight & Robyn Scrase. The 5 across the midfield were Nat Hulbert, Kirtsy Skinner, Becky Jones, Leanne Jones and Becky Hurst. Making there debuts up front were Amber Coates and Lisa Frampton. The bench showed great strength in depth with last season’s league top scorer Sharifa James and regular centre half Nat Hole being joined by Esther Hoznyak.
The Ton started the game well and quickly got into there stride-Kirsty Skinner was instructed to stick with the dangerous Tara Rutter and did a great job all afternoon. The good work by Skinner was allowing L Jones & B Jones time on the ball to set up Bittons passing game and early on some neat football involving the midfield and Coates nearly set Frampton free. The first decent chance cam when Coates wriggled away down the left and fired in a low cross but the keeper came diving out to claim the ball as Frampton went sliding in sniffing a goal. Bitton looked certain to open the scoring on 15 minutes when Coates was pulled back in the box as she was about to shoot and the ball bounced high up with the keeper on the floor-Frampton claimed the ball had gone over the line but the FOD defenders cleared the ball to safety. An Excellent cross from Hulbert provided B Jones with a great chance but after some neat control she took too long and was crowded out before getting here shot away. With Gallagher in the Bitton goal a virtual spectator Bitton continued to pile forward and were rewarded in the 20th minute when a fine ball from L Jones put Frampton clear and she waited for the keeper to commit before lifting the ball over her and into the net for her first competitive goal in Bitton Colours. 5 minutes later it was 2-0 as a Frampton cross provided B Jones with an identical chance to her previous one this time she controlled it and quickly unleashed a right foot volley that fizzed past the FOD keeper. After a brief spell where FOD came back into the game and had a bit of possession without really creating anything Bitton were back on the attack .With 5 minutes left a fine run from Skinner saw her tripped from behind for a penalty. The Bitton players looked at each other as nobody wanted to take the kick but up stepped Price from the back. She got right under her kick however and sent the ball high over the bar.
The Second half saw Forest Of dean come into the came a bit more and their pacy striker was starting to cause a few problems for the Bitton defenders. Coates should have extended the lead on a few occasions as firstly she went through on goal but hit a weak side foot shot straight at the keeper and then after outpacing the defence again she tried a curling lob that drifted wide with Frampton & B Jones both waiting for a tap in. A series of FOD Corners put the first real pressure on Bitton and the tall Clutterbuck and Rutter both got on the end of some good deliveries but could not convert. With FOD pressing Bitton hit them with a classic counter attack as the ball was cleared to Frampton wide on the right and from an impossibly angle 30 yards out she hit an unstoppable right foot drive that flew over the keepers head to make it 3-0. The game visibly changed after the goal and you could see by the body language and attitude of the Bitton girls that they thought the game was over. FOD had other ideas and for the next 10 minutes they totally dominated the game and put heavy pressure on the Bitton defence. The pressure caused the Bitton players to panic and where in the first half they were playing good balls out from the back and clearing there lines well now they were missing the balls and slicing clearances. FOD got on the score sheet when Rutter lost Skinner for the only time in the game and she punished her as she made ground down the left and produced a great finish over Gallagher in the Bitton goal. Two minutes later Bitton failed to deal with a cross and after a mini scramble the away midfielder scooped the ball home. With 2 minutes left Bitton now looked all over the place defensively and a hopeful ball over the top saw the pacy striker run clear on goal and she drilled the ball home to make it 3-3. With there next attack another ball over the top saw the striker free again but this time Gallagher came out to make a good save and keep Bitton in it. With no time left on the clock Bitton mounted one more attack and Hulbert made ground into the area where she was chopped down from behind by Clutterbuck and the referee awarded a spot kick. After several minutes hold up due to the treatment of Hulbert the responsibility was left with new signing Coates to take the kick. She showed real composure to put behind her previous misses as he drilled the ball home giving the keeper no chance. The ref played another minute or so but Bitton had managed to scrape a win which they had looked to have thrown away.
For 70 minutes Bitton were superb but they lost concentration and FOD almost made them pay. They need to learn quickly that in the higher league lapses in concentration will be punished.
Player of the match-Lisa Frampton-A lively debut with 2 good goals and an assist.
Bitton started the game with Chloe Gallagher in goal a back 3 of Meg Price, Charlotte Knight & Robyn Scrase. The 5 across the midfield were Nat Hulbert, Kirtsy Skinner, Becky Jones, Leanne Jones and Becky Hurst. Making there debuts up front were Amber Coates and Lisa Frampton. The bench showed great strength in depth with last season’s league top scorer Sharifa James and regular centre half Nat Hole being joined by Esther Hoznyak.
The Ton started the game well and quickly got into there stride-Kirsty Skinner was instructed to stick with the dangerous Tara Rutter and did a great job all afternoon. The good work by Skinner was allowing L Jones & B Jones time on the ball to set up Bittons passing game and early on some neat football involving the midfield and Coates nearly set Frampton free. The first decent chance cam when Coates wriggled away down the left and fired in a low cross but the keeper came diving out to claim the ball as Frampton went sliding in sniffing a goal. Bitton looked certain to open the scoring on 15 minutes when Coates was pulled back in the box as she was about to shoot and the ball bounced high up with the keeper on the floor-Frampton claimed the ball had gone over the line but the FOD defenders cleared the ball to safety. An Excellent cross from Hulbert provided B Jones with a great chance but after some neat control she took too long and was crowded out before getting here shot away. With Gallagher in the Bitton goal a virtual spectator Bitton continued to pile forward and were rewarded in the 20th minute when a fine ball from L Jones put Frampton clear and she waited for the keeper to commit before lifting the ball over her and into the net for her first competitive goal in Bitton Colours. 5 minutes later it was 2-0 as a Frampton cross provided B Jones with an identical chance to her previous one this time she controlled it and quickly unleashed a right foot volley that fizzed past the FOD keeper. After a brief spell where FOD came back into the game and had a bit of possession without really creating anything Bitton were back on the attack .With 5 minutes left a fine run from Skinner saw her tripped from behind for a penalty. The Bitton players looked at each other as nobody wanted to take the kick but up stepped Price from the back. She got right under her kick however and sent the ball high over the bar.
The Second half saw Forest Of dean come into the came a bit more and their pacy striker was starting to cause a few problems for the Bitton defenders. Coates should have extended the lead on a few occasions as firstly she went through on goal but hit a weak side foot shot straight at the keeper and then after outpacing the defence again she tried a curling lob that drifted wide with Frampton & B Jones both waiting for a tap in. A series of FOD Corners put the first real pressure on Bitton and the tall Clutterbuck and Rutter both got on the end of some good deliveries but could not convert. With FOD pressing Bitton hit them with a classic counter attack as the ball was cleared to Frampton wide on the right and from an impossibly angle 30 yards out she hit an unstoppable right foot drive that flew over the keepers head to make it 3-0. The game visibly changed after the goal and you could see by the body language and attitude of the Bitton girls that they thought the game was over. FOD had other ideas and for the next 10 minutes they totally dominated the game and put heavy pressure on the Bitton defence. The pressure caused the Bitton players to panic and where in the first half they were playing good balls out from the back and clearing there lines well now they were missing the balls and slicing clearances. FOD got on the score sheet when Rutter lost Skinner for the only time in the game and she punished her as she made ground down the left and produced a great finish over Gallagher in the Bitton goal. Two minutes later Bitton failed to deal with a cross and after a mini scramble the away midfielder scooped the ball home. With 2 minutes left Bitton now looked all over the place defensively and a hopeful ball over the top saw the pacy striker run clear on goal and she drilled the ball home to make it 3-3. With there next attack another ball over the top saw the striker free again but this time Gallagher came out to make a good save and keep Bitton in it. With no time left on the clock Bitton mounted one more attack and Hulbert made ground into the area where she was chopped down from behind by Clutterbuck and the referee awarded a spot kick. After several minutes hold up due to the treatment of Hulbert the responsibility was left with new signing Coates to take the kick. She showed real composure to put behind her previous misses as he drilled the ball home giving the keeper no chance. The ref played another minute or so but Bitton had managed to scrape a win which they had looked to have thrown away.
For 70 minutes Bitton were superb but they lost concentration and FOD almost made them pay. They need to learn quickly that in the higher league lapses in concentration will be punished.
Player of the match-Lisa Frampton-A lively debut with 2 good goals and an assist.
Oldland 1-3 Bitton
Coates,Hurst, B Jones
Carly & Char
On a glorious Sunny afternoon Bitton proved they are more than a match for the better sides in the region as they defeated South West Women’s premier side Oldland Abbotonians 3-1 as they continued there winning start to pre season. Despite not playing at there best Bitton dominated the first half but failed to make the breakthrough but a 3 goal burst at the start of the second half put Bitton firmly in control before Oldland had there best spell of the game in the last 15 minutes and grabbed a consolation after a mistake.
After last weeks Excellent performance against Bridgwater Bitton made just the three changes to the starting line up with Chloe Gallagher replacing Tammy Murphy in goal, Carly Bray coming into the side instead of the absent Nat Hulbert and Kirsty Skinner replacing Esther Hosnyzak who had to settle for a place on the bench.
On a good surface that was surprisingly firm after the amount of rain we had the previous day Bitton started the game right on top as they looked to get the ball down and pass. The first half chance came when Kirsty Skinner lofted a ball over the top and just as it looked as Lisa Frampton would get on the end of it Oldland keeper Jemma Close came rushing out to snuff the danger. Despite there numbers of experienced players Bitton were coping well when Oldland had the ball shutting them down early and marking tight. Oldlands main threat came from Beth dale who managed to wriggle free a couple of times and make space but she was restricted to a couple of long range efforts that were easily dealt with buy Gallagher in the Bitton goal. The diminutive Jess Coles showed some good close control and trickery for Oldland but Bitton were looking in control and should have taken the lead on 15 minutes as Amber Coates was played in by a long clearance from Meg Price but Close was quick to make the save down to her right as Coates scuffed the shot a bit. Despite Becky Jones and Leanne Jones both failing to hit the heights of last weeks performance and not having the best of games Bitton continued to make all the early running with several good passing moves down both wings. Price was unlucky not to score after getting on the end of 2 corners but saw the ball cleared to safety on both occasions. Carly Bray knocked a good ball down the line to Coates and she beat her marker but here squared ball to B Jones was short and was intercepted by the tall Oldland defender Louise Walter. New signing Lisa Frampton really should have got a goal against her Former side when she broke free with just close to beat but she took the ball wide and ended up dragging her shot past the right hand post.Bitton began to get frustrated as they struggled to convert there dominance into goals so half time came as a welcome break for both teams to regroup.
After a positive team talk Bitton came flying out of the traps for the second half and took the lead barely a minute in when Frampton made space on the right hand side and she played a great pass into the path of the rushing Coates who had not been tracked by Walter or ex Bitton player George Bragg. Coates still had work to do but she produced a sublime finish as she toe pokedthe ball over the advancing close who may have just got a fingertip to the ball but could not prevent it going in. The goal boosted Bitton and they looked to hammer home there dominance and get another goal and they did not have to wait long. Becky Jones made a great break from midfield beyond the strikers and she was played in with a lovely ball over the top by Char Knight. Close came rushing out again to stop the danger but had come out of her area and as Jones tried to play the ball round her towards goal the Right hand of the keeper came out and the ref gave the free kick on the edge of the box and actually showed a bit of common sense by allowing the Oldland keeper to stay on the pitch despite being the last player and clearly stopping a certain goal. Becky Hurst stepped up and drilled her shot straight at the wall but as the ball rebounded back to her she hit a great left foot half volley that sailed straight back towards goal giving close no chance. Oldland began to gradually get a hold on the game as they started to work the ball around a bit better and use a bit of there possession. The back 3 of Knight , Price and Robyn Scrase were still looking solid though and soaking up the little bit of Oldland pressure and Bitton struck a classic sucker punch as they hit oldland with a real counter attack goal to make it 3. After committing too many bodies forward Bitton quickly cleared the ball to the left where Coates was allowed the time to turn and Frampton made a great run towards her pulling the other centre half out of position and creating a massive gap down the middle of the pitch where B Jones was making another long run and Coates produced a sublime pass into her path. Jones took one touch and just as Close was setting herself Jones produced a toe poke that with no back lift that flew straight into the bottom corner. After this we had the usual number of substitutions that Friendly’s produce and this seemed to unsettle Bitton more than oldland and they began there best spell of the game.Gemma Summers had a couple of decent runs but was well shackled by Char Knight and Walter was unlucky with a header that flashed just wide. Oldland did get there consolation after a real comedy of errors as Bitton failed to clear the ball on several occasions and the ball popped up and onto the head of Sam Johns who planted a soft header back towards goal where Chloe Gallgher called for it only the let the ball drop between her arms and through her legs(Maybe she wants to retain her howler of the year award) Sharifa James had a chance to make it 4-1 when she exchanged passes with Coates but she hit her shot straight at the keeper.
A pleasing performance against a good footballing side who we didn’t allow the space to hurt us. We were far from our best today but once again looked dangerous in attack and solid at the back. Week off next week before our final friendly against Tetbury on the 29th.
After last weeks Excellent performance against Bridgwater Bitton made just the three changes to the starting line up with Chloe Gallagher replacing Tammy Murphy in goal, Carly Bray coming into the side instead of the absent Nat Hulbert and Kirsty Skinner replacing Esther Hosnyzak who had to settle for a place on the bench.
On a good surface that was surprisingly firm after the amount of rain we had the previous day Bitton started the game right on top as they looked to get the ball down and pass. The first half chance came when Kirsty Skinner lofted a ball over the top and just as it looked as Lisa Frampton would get on the end of it Oldland keeper Jemma Close came rushing out to snuff the danger. Despite there numbers of experienced players Bitton were coping well when Oldland had the ball shutting them down early and marking tight. Oldlands main threat came from Beth dale who managed to wriggle free a couple of times and make space but she was restricted to a couple of long range efforts that were easily dealt with buy Gallagher in the Bitton goal. The diminutive Jess Coles showed some good close control and trickery for Oldland but Bitton were looking in control and should have taken the lead on 15 minutes as Amber Coates was played in by a long clearance from Meg Price but Close was quick to make the save down to her right as Coates scuffed the shot a bit. Despite Becky Jones and Leanne Jones both failing to hit the heights of last weeks performance and not having the best of games Bitton continued to make all the early running with several good passing moves down both wings. Price was unlucky not to score after getting on the end of 2 corners but saw the ball cleared to safety on both occasions. Carly Bray knocked a good ball down the line to Coates and she beat her marker but here squared ball to B Jones was short and was intercepted by the tall Oldland defender Louise Walter. New signing Lisa Frampton really should have got a goal against her Former side when she broke free with just close to beat but she took the ball wide and ended up dragging her shot past the right hand post.Bitton began to get frustrated as they struggled to convert there dominance into goals so half time came as a welcome break for both teams to regroup.
After a positive team talk Bitton came flying out of the traps for the second half and took the lead barely a minute in when Frampton made space on the right hand side and she played a great pass into the path of the rushing Coates who had not been tracked by Walter or ex Bitton player George Bragg. Coates still had work to do but she produced a sublime finish as she toe pokedthe ball over the advancing close who may have just got a fingertip to the ball but could not prevent it going in. The goal boosted Bitton and they looked to hammer home there dominance and get another goal and they did not have to wait long. Becky Jones made a great break from midfield beyond the strikers and she was played in with a lovely ball over the top by Char Knight. Close came rushing out again to stop the danger but had come out of her area and as Jones tried to play the ball round her towards goal the Right hand of the keeper came out and the ref gave the free kick on the edge of the box and actually showed a bit of common sense by allowing the Oldland keeper to stay on the pitch despite being the last player and clearly stopping a certain goal. Becky Hurst stepped up and drilled her shot straight at the wall but as the ball rebounded back to her she hit a great left foot half volley that sailed straight back towards goal giving close no chance. Oldland began to gradually get a hold on the game as they started to work the ball around a bit better and use a bit of there possession. The back 3 of Knight , Price and Robyn Scrase were still looking solid though and soaking up the little bit of Oldland pressure and Bitton struck a classic sucker punch as they hit oldland with a real counter attack goal to make it 3. After committing too many bodies forward Bitton quickly cleared the ball to the left where Coates was allowed the time to turn and Frampton made a great run towards her pulling the other centre half out of position and creating a massive gap down the middle of the pitch where B Jones was making another long run and Coates produced a sublime pass into her path. Jones took one touch and just as Close was setting herself Jones produced a toe poke that with no back lift that flew straight into the bottom corner. After this we had the usual number of substitutions that Friendly’s produce and this seemed to unsettle Bitton more than oldland and they began there best spell of the game.Gemma Summers had a couple of decent runs but was well shackled by Char Knight and Walter was unlucky with a header that flashed just wide. Oldland did get there consolation after a real comedy of errors as Bitton failed to clear the ball on several occasions and the ball popped up and onto the head of Sam Johns who planted a soft header back towards goal where Chloe Gallgher called for it only the let the ball drop between her arms and through her legs(Maybe she wants to retain her howler of the year award) Sharifa James had a chance to make it 4-1 when she exchanged passes with Coates but she hit her shot straight at the keeper.
A pleasing performance against a good footballing side who we didn’t allow the space to hurt us. We were far from our best today but once again looked dangerous in attack and solid at the back. Week off next week before our final friendly against Tetbury on the 29th.
Bridgewater 1-5 Bitton
Coates(3), Scrase, B Jones
Amber hit her first hat trick for the club
Bitton travelled down the M5 for there second pre season game against Somerset county Division 1 runners up Bridgwater Town. Despite missing several key players Bitton adapted to a new formation and played some fantastic football to come away with an emphatic 5-1 victory which could have been even greater as Bitton also missed several easy chances to increase the lead. Robyn Scrase was excellent again as she slotted in again at the back alongside Char Knight & Meg Price. Nat Hulbert and Becky Hurst occupied the wing back roles. Leanne Jones and Esther Hosznyak were in the middle with Becky Jones playing just in behind Amber Coates and Lisa Frampton. Tammy Murphy started in goal as she faced he old club which meant Chloe Gallagher was joined on the bench by Michelle Wolf and the returning Sharifa James.
After a few sloppy passes in the opening minutes as Bitton adjusted to a change in formation they clicked into gear on 5 minutes with some excellent one touch passing involving Coates, B Jones, Hurst and L Jones which resulted in Frampton racing clear but she was denied by a last ditch tackle. It was clear that the new formation allowed Bitton to dominate the midfield and the passing and movement was a joy to watch as time and again they opened up Bridgwater with neat interplay. B Jones thought she had opened the scoring on 15 minutes when after good work down the right by Hulbert set up Knight who whipped in a great cross and B Jones caught the ball on the full with her left peg but her sweetly struck volley was saved at point blank range by the keeper. Bitton did not have to wait long to take the lead though as Becky Hurst knocked in a corner that made it’s way right to the back post where Robyn Scrase bundled the ball over the line for her first goal For Bitton. The goal seemed to give Bitton even more confidence and with Murphy commanding in goal and Price organising the back line well Bitton continued to pour bodies forward. It was 2-0 on 30 minutes as new signing Amber Coates collected a pass on the right hand side of the box and struck a sweet shot from 20 yards that fizzed past the keeper at the near post. Coates got her second and Bittons 3rd when a long ball from Keeper Murphy bounced over the Bridgwater defence and Coates was first to the bouncing ball, the keeper came rushing out and Coates showed great skill to calmly lift the ball over her head and into the goal. At this point Bitton were rampant and creating lots of chances. Bridgwater had a couple of efforts from free kicks and a few long range shots but never really got in behind the Bitton rearguard. B Jones nearly made it 4-0 when after a scramble from a corner she had a close range header hit the post and be cleared to safety. Frampton got on the end of a Hurst free kick with a good header but Coates and B Jones failed to fire to loose ball home.
The second half started in the same fashion as the first with L Jones really dominating the play with several probing runs and linking up well with Coates and B Jones. James had come on to replace Hosznyak and was looking to get involved in everything linking up the play. Hulbert was showing a great work ethic as she time and again raided up the right hand side looking to cause havoc in the Bridgwater defence. Bitton made it 4-0 on 60 minutes when a good passing move ended with James producing a cheeky back-heel to B Jones on the edge of the area where she hit a first time drive that was too hot to handle for the keeper and the ball dropped into the corner of the net. Frampton then scrambled clear of the defence and with only the keeper to beat she showed great awareness to square the ball to James who was left with an open goal but she did not connect with ball well and the scrambling defender just got a touch on the ball. The impressive Coates got her hat trick goal and Bittons 5th when good play between Frampton and James saw the ball rebound and Coates lashed the ball home with her left foot giving the keeper no chance. James then went clear again and after easily beating the defender she miss hit her shot and the ball squirmed wide. In truth Bitton seemed to take there foot of the gas in the second half and lost concentration on a couple of occasions but they were excused that after playing so well in the first half. Bridgwater got the consolation goal they probably deserved when Bitton switched off again and failed to deal with a corner that was headed in at the far post.
Overall a great display from a Bitton side that seems to be warming up well for the new season. They showed good fitness levels and the passing was some of the best they have ever produced. Another goal conceded from a corner is a slight cause for concern and is something that must be worked on. The new formation seemed to work wonders and allowed the players to really express themselves. Some excellent performances again throughout the side but Coates was impressive in claiming a hat trick and B Jones seemed to relish her role in behind the 2 strikers. For the second week running though Scrase showed how much she has improved and is staying in the side at the moment on merit even managing to grab herself a goal
After a few sloppy passes in the opening minutes as Bitton adjusted to a change in formation they clicked into gear on 5 minutes with some excellent one touch passing involving Coates, B Jones, Hurst and L Jones which resulted in Frampton racing clear but she was denied by a last ditch tackle. It was clear that the new formation allowed Bitton to dominate the midfield and the passing and movement was a joy to watch as time and again they opened up Bridgwater with neat interplay. B Jones thought she had opened the scoring on 15 minutes when after good work down the right by Hulbert set up Knight who whipped in a great cross and B Jones caught the ball on the full with her left peg but her sweetly struck volley was saved at point blank range by the keeper. Bitton did not have to wait long to take the lead though as Becky Hurst knocked in a corner that made it’s way right to the back post where Robyn Scrase bundled the ball over the line for her first goal For Bitton. The goal seemed to give Bitton even more confidence and with Murphy commanding in goal and Price organising the back line well Bitton continued to pour bodies forward. It was 2-0 on 30 minutes as new signing Amber Coates collected a pass on the right hand side of the box and struck a sweet shot from 20 yards that fizzed past the keeper at the near post. Coates got her second and Bittons 3rd when a long ball from Keeper Murphy bounced over the Bridgwater defence and Coates was first to the bouncing ball, the keeper came rushing out and Coates showed great skill to calmly lift the ball over her head and into the goal. At this point Bitton were rampant and creating lots of chances. Bridgwater had a couple of efforts from free kicks and a few long range shots but never really got in behind the Bitton rearguard. B Jones nearly made it 4-0 when after a scramble from a corner she had a close range header hit the post and be cleared to safety. Frampton got on the end of a Hurst free kick with a good header but Coates and B Jones failed to fire to loose ball home.
The second half started in the same fashion as the first with L Jones really dominating the play with several probing runs and linking up well with Coates and B Jones. James had come on to replace Hosznyak and was looking to get involved in everything linking up the play. Hulbert was showing a great work ethic as she time and again raided up the right hand side looking to cause havoc in the Bridgwater defence. Bitton made it 4-0 on 60 minutes when a good passing move ended with James producing a cheeky back-heel to B Jones on the edge of the area where she hit a first time drive that was too hot to handle for the keeper and the ball dropped into the corner of the net. Frampton then scrambled clear of the defence and with only the keeper to beat she showed great awareness to square the ball to James who was left with an open goal but she did not connect with ball well and the scrambling defender just got a touch on the ball. The impressive Coates got her hat trick goal and Bittons 5th when good play between Frampton and James saw the ball rebound and Coates lashed the ball home with her left foot giving the keeper no chance. James then went clear again and after easily beating the defender she miss hit her shot and the ball squirmed wide. In truth Bitton seemed to take there foot of the gas in the second half and lost concentration on a couple of occasions but they were excused that after playing so well in the first half. Bridgwater got the consolation goal they probably deserved when Bitton switched off again and failed to deal with a corner that was headed in at the far post.
Overall a great display from a Bitton side that seems to be warming up well for the new season. They showed good fitness levels and the passing was some of the best they have ever produced. Another goal conceded from a corner is a slight cause for concern and is something that must be worked on. The new formation seemed to work wonders and allowed the players to really express themselves. Some excellent performances again throughout the side but Coates was impressive in claiming a hat trick and B Jones seemed to relish her role in behind the 2 strikers. For the second week running though Scrase showed how much she has improved and is staying in the side at the moment on merit even managing to grab herself a goal
2009/10 Season
AEK Boco 4 v 2 Bitton
Hulbert,James
With the title already won and the game meaningless Bitton approached the game in a very relaxed manner which included a warm up in the park and some Stuck in the mud and despite matching there opponents for most of the game went down 4-2 after gifting Boco all of there goals. For a team that had only conceded 3 goals all season Bitton produced some calamity defending allowing Boco to race into a 4-0 lead, they did make a late fight back and managed 2 goals but Boco held on for there win. With the late withdrawal of Laura Tugwell Bitton were forced into a reshuffle at the back and it was Robyn Scrase who slotted in at left back. Nat Hole returned to central defence and Kirsty Stone partnered Leanne Jones in central midfield.
From the start there was a clear difference in the team’s attitudes with the Boco girls looking really up for it and the Bitton girls looking very relaxed and care-free after a long hard season which had already brought them the title and a cup final appearance. Despite this the game was fairly even and the only real difference between the teams was Boco had a bit more desire to win the game. There was some good battles all over the pitch but the Alice Durston/Kirsty Stone one in particular was a great advert for women’s football with both girls having excellent games for there respective teams. After a fairly quiet opening 15 minutes it was Durston who had the first chance of the game as she met a Sasha Ferris corner and her looping header skimmed the top of the bar as Boco looked to gain an advantage. Robyn Scrase was having an excellent game at left back and was looking solid backed up by some great tackles by Becky Hurst and despite having more possession Boco never really looked like getting in behind the Bitton backline. A great ball over the top by Char Knight had the Boco rearguard scrambling and Lucy Dinham just managed to clear with Becky Jones and Sharifa James breathing down her neck. Gemma Street in the Boco goal was quick off her line on a number of occasions to stop Bitton attacks and Sammi Hollis was sweeping up well clearing the danger. Becky Hurst then went close with a couple of free kicks before Boco took the lead in comical circumstances. Kelly Cutler launched a hopeful cross into the box and despite there being no Boco player in the box or even within 20 yards of her Chloe Gallagher in the Bitton goal somehow managed to misjudge the cross that was heading away from goal and sent it back into her own net. This was the only way either team were going to score in a first half dominated by defences.
After playing reasonably well in the first half despite there relaxed attitude Bitton took another step backwards at the start of the second half when for 20 minutes they went from playing with a relaxed attitude to just messing about with some really sloppy play. With more of a killer instinct Boco really would have taken full advantage and grabbed a hatful of goals. The shocking spell started only 5 minutes in when a hopeful ball to the edge of the box saw Ferris turn well with No Bitton player even making an attempt to track her and her Miss hit shot appeared to be heading wide before Meg Price deflected it into the bottom corner with all the skill of a top class striker. 10 Minutes later it was 3-0 as another mistake from Gallagher cost them again. A mini scramble in the box saw the ball rebound to the keeper but instead of catching it she just pushed the ball away with a combination of her thigh and hip and Char Knight and Jess Sedsgby bundled the ball over the line together with the distinct possibility of Knight getting the final touch for a hat trick of Bitton own goals. Gallagher continued her clown act when she headed away a cross from a Boco player and the most ridiculous spell of the entire season was finally over as Boco took a 4-0 lead with another shocking goals as yet another scramble was not properly cleared and Lorna Miller appeared to stab the ball home despite Knight claiming another goal after the game. Bitton then suddenly woke up and realised they did not want to be on the end of a hammering and started to play a bit more like Champions. A low Becky Hurst cross from the left was missed by Sophie Wyatt and Hollis and broke to Hulbert but Street was quick off the line but could only clear cleared straight to Stone and with the keeper down and out of position just as Stone was about to have a shot the ref took the strange decision to blow her whistle for treatment to the keeper despite it obviously not being a serious or head injury. Some lovely football down the left created the next opening when B Jones played in Hurst but she shot wide. With the Bitton fans now in great voice the girls wanted to give them a goal and that is exactly what they got on 70 minutes when Hulbert hit a shot from the edge of the box which hit the bar and came back out to James who returned the ball back towards goal and Hulbert finished it off from close range after following in. 5 Minutes later Bitton pulled it back to 4-2 when B Jones found herself in the box with Street rushing out towards her she seemed to use her knee to loft the ball over the keeper and the ball dropped and hit the post, James was the quickest to react and tapped in from close range. Bitton were now well on top and really playing with a smile on there face. Despite the game not really meaning anything Boco then spent 15 minutes trying to take the balls into the corners in a desperate attempt to hang on. Bitton never really looked that interested in clawing back the goals and were quite happy to knock the ball around and wait for the final whistle. Final action of the game saw Hurst skip past Briony Harris again and deliver the ball into the box but it was cleared away to safety and the ref blew her whistle to spark great scenes of celebration as the champagne corks were popped and Bitton started to party as they drew a line under what has been an incredible season. They knew the result today did not matter and despite conceding more than 2 goals in a game for the first time this season they were determined to celebrate there success this year.
Player of the match-Robyn Scrase- Has not always started this season but has come into some great from in the past few weeks despite being asked to play out of position.
De de de de deda de de de de de de de deda---I love You Bitton!!!!!!!
Congratulations Bitton ladies on a great season
From the start there was a clear difference in the team’s attitudes with the Boco girls looking really up for it and the Bitton girls looking very relaxed and care-free after a long hard season which had already brought them the title and a cup final appearance. Despite this the game was fairly even and the only real difference between the teams was Boco had a bit more desire to win the game. There was some good battles all over the pitch but the Alice Durston/Kirsty Stone one in particular was a great advert for women’s football with both girls having excellent games for there respective teams. After a fairly quiet opening 15 minutes it was Durston who had the first chance of the game as she met a Sasha Ferris corner and her looping header skimmed the top of the bar as Boco looked to gain an advantage. Robyn Scrase was having an excellent game at left back and was looking solid backed up by some great tackles by Becky Hurst and despite having more possession Boco never really looked like getting in behind the Bitton backline. A great ball over the top by Char Knight had the Boco rearguard scrambling and Lucy Dinham just managed to clear with Becky Jones and Sharifa James breathing down her neck. Gemma Street in the Boco goal was quick off her line on a number of occasions to stop Bitton attacks and Sammi Hollis was sweeping up well clearing the danger. Becky Hurst then went close with a couple of free kicks before Boco took the lead in comical circumstances. Kelly Cutler launched a hopeful cross into the box and despite there being no Boco player in the box or even within 20 yards of her Chloe Gallagher in the Bitton goal somehow managed to misjudge the cross that was heading away from goal and sent it back into her own net. This was the only way either team were going to score in a first half dominated by defences.
After playing reasonably well in the first half despite there relaxed attitude Bitton took another step backwards at the start of the second half when for 20 minutes they went from playing with a relaxed attitude to just messing about with some really sloppy play. With more of a killer instinct Boco really would have taken full advantage and grabbed a hatful of goals. The shocking spell started only 5 minutes in when a hopeful ball to the edge of the box saw Ferris turn well with No Bitton player even making an attempt to track her and her Miss hit shot appeared to be heading wide before Meg Price deflected it into the bottom corner with all the skill of a top class striker. 10 Minutes later it was 3-0 as another mistake from Gallagher cost them again. A mini scramble in the box saw the ball rebound to the keeper but instead of catching it she just pushed the ball away with a combination of her thigh and hip and Char Knight and Jess Sedsgby bundled the ball over the line together with the distinct possibility of Knight getting the final touch for a hat trick of Bitton own goals. Gallagher continued her clown act when she headed away a cross from a Boco player and the most ridiculous spell of the entire season was finally over as Boco took a 4-0 lead with another shocking goals as yet another scramble was not properly cleared and Lorna Miller appeared to stab the ball home despite Knight claiming another goal after the game. Bitton then suddenly woke up and realised they did not want to be on the end of a hammering and started to play a bit more like Champions. A low Becky Hurst cross from the left was missed by Sophie Wyatt and Hollis and broke to Hulbert but Street was quick off the line but could only clear cleared straight to Stone and with the keeper down and out of position just as Stone was about to have a shot the ref took the strange decision to blow her whistle for treatment to the keeper despite it obviously not being a serious or head injury. Some lovely football down the left created the next opening when B Jones played in Hurst but she shot wide. With the Bitton fans now in great voice the girls wanted to give them a goal and that is exactly what they got on 70 minutes when Hulbert hit a shot from the edge of the box which hit the bar and came back out to James who returned the ball back towards goal and Hulbert finished it off from close range after following in. 5 Minutes later Bitton pulled it back to 4-2 when B Jones found herself in the box with Street rushing out towards her she seemed to use her knee to loft the ball over the keeper and the ball dropped and hit the post, James was the quickest to react and tapped in from close range. Bitton were now well on top and really playing with a smile on there face. Despite the game not really meaning anything Boco then spent 15 minutes trying to take the balls into the corners in a desperate attempt to hang on. Bitton never really looked that interested in clawing back the goals and were quite happy to knock the ball around and wait for the final whistle. Final action of the game saw Hurst skip past Briony Harris again and deliver the ball into the box but it was cleared away to safety and the ref blew her whistle to spark great scenes of celebration as the champagne corks were popped and Bitton started to party as they drew a line under what has been an incredible season. They knew the result today did not matter and despite conceding more than 2 goals in a game for the first time this season they were determined to celebrate there success this year.
Player of the match-Robyn Scrase- Has not always started this season but has come into some great from in the past few weeks despite being asked to play out of position.
De de de de deda de de de de de de de deda---I love You Bitton!!!!!!!
Congratulations Bitton ladies on a great season
Mitcheldean 0 v 4 Bitton
Hulbert,James,Hurst,L Jones
Bitton Ladies-GCWFL Div 2 Champions!!!!!!!!
2nd May 2010 is the day that will be in the record books, the day Bitton ladies clinched there first ever title. In truth the performance as they beat Mitcheldean 4-0 was scrappy and Bitton were far from there best but as they have done for most of the season Bitton got the job done. This group of players have somehow developed a great skill this season in having the ability to grind out a result despite not playing that well. Once again a clean sheet from the solid defence was the platform for the team to build on and this was the teams 13th shut out of the season.
On a cold windy day Bitton travelled to Mitcheldean knowing they needed a win to secure the title and claim Bitton Ladies first ever piece of silverware. Kirsty Stone was missing on her hen do and Nat Hole had not recovered from the knee injury sustained in last weeks cup final so sat out the game. Grace Baker showed how much she wanted to be involved and did line up in the centre of midfield despite still suffering from her hamstring injury. Robyn Scrase was the player to drop in and partner Meg Price in central defence.
Knowing exactly what was needed Bitton started like a train and went straight on the attack overpowering the Mitcheldean defence.Sharifa James had 2 chances within the first minute after breaking free but both her shots were straight at the keeper. Leanne Jones was dominating the early stages and a few crosses from Becky Hurst caused panic in the Mitcheldean rear guard. Bitton were denied a few times by the Mitcheldean keeper who in truth kept the score down on the day and were also denied shooting chances on a number of occasions by the linesman’s flag. They did open the scoring however on 10 minutes when Becky Hurst knocked in a corner from the left and Becky Jones stepped over the ball at the near post which allowed Nat Hulbert to smash the ball home from close range to settle some Bitton nerves. Bitton doubled the lead 5 minutes late when a great ball from Leanne Jones found Sharifa James who after taking a touch fired into the bottom corner from a tight angle. If Bitton thought Mitcheldean would crumble they were mistaken as the home side worked hard and scrapped for every ball. Bittons momentum was time and again stopped though as a number of Mitcheldean players went down for treatment and slowed the game down. Bitton had a real scare on 25 minutes when Mitcheldean had there best chance of the game. An uncharacteristic mistake saw Meg Price and Char Knight collide allowing Charmaine Turley to run clear with Just Gallagher to beat but she hit her shot from close range onto the foot of the post and the ball was cleared for a corner. Grace Baker had to be withdrawn on the half hour after failing to shake off the injury and she was replaced by Kay Haim who moved up front and Becky Jones dropped into midfiled.Bitton were looking nervous and were really struggling to get the ball down and play and several times gave the ball away in good areas. They were still on top but could not find away past the impressive keeper.
After a reminder of what was at stake by the manager at half time Bitton improved in the second half with Becky and Leanne Jones really starting to dominate the midfield, Hurst had the beating of her marker and was linking up well with the overlapping Tugwell but several telling crosses failed to bring a crucial third goal to put Bitton out of sight. Kay Haim was unlucky with a rocket of a shot after beating her marker but her effort went straight at the keeper. With Robyn Scrase having a good game now at the back the defence were looking solid allowing Bitton to pour forward looking for that crucial goal and it came on 70 minutes when a Becky Hurst cross-shot deceived the keeper and just dropped over the line with Nat Hulbert following in to make sure.Bitton could now really relax and created several more goal scoring chances but were denied by the keeper. Mitcheldean looked to have got a goal back when a rocket from the edge of the box was sensationally tipped over the bar by Chloe Gallagher in the Bitton goal. Bitton wrapped up the game with 5 minutes to play as Becky Jones fed Leanne Jones on the edge of the box and her swerving shot beat the keeper. The final whistle was then blown to spark celebration from the Bitton players as the 3 point won clinched the title after a long and hard season.
The performance was a nervy one with what was at stake but once again the players got the job done and deserved all the praise for there hard work throughout the season. The start of the season saw Bitton ripping teams apart with some great free flowing football and goals galore but they have showed the other side of there game in recent weeks by digging in, working hard as a team and showing great team spirit.
Extremely proud of every player who has pulled on a Bitton shirt this season and to claim the title to go alongside the appearance in the league cup final just caps an amazing season for the side.
Player of the match-Team award-On a day when the title was won the whole team deserve praise for and incredible effort
2nd May 2010 is the day that will be in the record books, the day Bitton ladies clinched there first ever title. In truth the performance as they beat Mitcheldean 4-0 was scrappy and Bitton were far from there best but as they have done for most of the season Bitton got the job done. This group of players have somehow developed a great skill this season in having the ability to grind out a result despite not playing that well. Once again a clean sheet from the solid defence was the platform for the team to build on and this was the teams 13th shut out of the season.
On a cold windy day Bitton travelled to Mitcheldean knowing they needed a win to secure the title and claim Bitton Ladies first ever piece of silverware. Kirsty Stone was missing on her hen do and Nat Hole had not recovered from the knee injury sustained in last weeks cup final so sat out the game. Grace Baker showed how much she wanted to be involved and did line up in the centre of midfield despite still suffering from her hamstring injury. Robyn Scrase was the player to drop in and partner Meg Price in central defence.
Knowing exactly what was needed Bitton started like a train and went straight on the attack overpowering the Mitcheldean defence.Sharifa James had 2 chances within the first minute after breaking free but both her shots were straight at the keeper. Leanne Jones was dominating the early stages and a few crosses from Becky Hurst caused panic in the Mitcheldean rear guard. Bitton were denied a few times by the Mitcheldean keeper who in truth kept the score down on the day and were also denied shooting chances on a number of occasions by the linesman’s flag. They did open the scoring however on 10 minutes when Becky Hurst knocked in a corner from the left and Becky Jones stepped over the ball at the near post which allowed Nat Hulbert to smash the ball home from close range to settle some Bitton nerves. Bitton doubled the lead 5 minutes late when a great ball from Leanne Jones found Sharifa James who after taking a touch fired into the bottom corner from a tight angle. If Bitton thought Mitcheldean would crumble they were mistaken as the home side worked hard and scrapped for every ball. Bittons momentum was time and again stopped though as a number of Mitcheldean players went down for treatment and slowed the game down. Bitton had a real scare on 25 minutes when Mitcheldean had there best chance of the game. An uncharacteristic mistake saw Meg Price and Char Knight collide allowing Charmaine Turley to run clear with Just Gallagher to beat but she hit her shot from close range onto the foot of the post and the ball was cleared for a corner. Grace Baker had to be withdrawn on the half hour after failing to shake off the injury and she was replaced by Kay Haim who moved up front and Becky Jones dropped into midfiled.Bitton were looking nervous and were really struggling to get the ball down and play and several times gave the ball away in good areas. They were still on top but could not find away past the impressive keeper.
After a reminder of what was at stake by the manager at half time Bitton improved in the second half with Becky and Leanne Jones really starting to dominate the midfield, Hurst had the beating of her marker and was linking up well with the overlapping Tugwell but several telling crosses failed to bring a crucial third goal to put Bitton out of sight. Kay Haim was unlucky with a rocket of a shot after beating her marker but her effort went straight at the keeper. With Robyn Scrase having a good game now at the back the defence were looking solid allowing Bitton to pour forward looking for that crucial goal and it came on 70 minutes when a Becky Hurst cross-shot deceived the keeper and just dropped over the line with Nat Hulbert following in to make sure.Bitton could now really relax and created several more goal scoring chances but were denied by the keeper. Mitcheldean looked to have got a goal back when a rocket from the edge of the box was sensationally tipped over the bar by Chloe Gallagher in the Bitton goal. Bitton wrapped up the game with 5 minutes to play as Becky Jones fed Leanne Jones on the edge of the box and her swerving shot beat the keeper. The final whistle was then blown to spark celebration from the Bitton players as the 3 point won clinched the title after a long and hard season.
The performance was a nervy one with what was at stake but once again the players got the job done and deserved all the praise for there hard work throughout the season. The start of the season saw Bitton ripping teams apart with some great free flowing football and goals galore but they have showed the other side of there game in recent weeks by digging in, working hard as a team and showing great team spirit.
Extremely proud of every player who has pulled on a Bitton shirt this season and to claim the title to go alongside the appearance in the league cup final just caps an amazing season for the side.
Player of the match-Team award-On a day when the title was won the whole team deserve praise for and incredible effort
Swindon supermarine 2 v 1 Bitton
Hurst
Nat hole off injured
Bitton came out second on there big day as they went down 2-1 to an excellent Swindon Supermarine side in the League cup final. Despite the defeat Bitton were not too downhearted about the defeat as they put in a spirited performance that showed how far they have come in such a short space of time. Once again Bitton had a nightmare with injuries before and during the game. Kirsty Stone being the main casualty as she broke down in the warm up and was unable to play any part in the game. The pitch at Yate is well known for being one of the biggest in the local area and combined with the fact it was rock hard and covered with heavy amounts of sand it was clear the conditions would be difficult and play a key role in how the game was played. The game itself was largely a midfield battle with few chances at either end but Swindon Supermarines physical strength seemed to just give them the advantage.
Straight from kick off it was noticeable that Swindon had a big height advantage with Claire Moreton at the back and Michelle Rich in midfield in particular towering above the smaller Bitton girls. Rich was probably the stand out player on the day she was a constant threat at set pieces using her height from corners and she also hit a few excellent free kicks. After a scrappy start with Annabelle Martin of Swindon showing some good pace it was Bitton who carved out the first real chance. A foul out wide gave Becky Hurst the chance to deliver a free kick into the box. She whipped a great ball into the near post where it was met by the head of Nat Hole but unfortunately the ball flew straight at Turner in the Swindon goal when she would have been helpless if the ball had directed anywhere else on target. Hurst and Laura Tugwell were combining well down the left side and causing the Swindon players some problems. Swindon then forced a couple of corners and Rich should have done better when well placed but she seemed to take her eye of the ball and missed the header.Bittons cause was not helped when Grace Baker had a reoccurrence of hamstring injury and despite trying to battle on she had to be replaced on 15 minutes by Robyn Scrase. Rich then hit a free kick from 30 yards that grazed the top of the bar before Bitton nearly took the lead with a fluke goal as a hopeful cross from Nat Hulbert nearly bounced high over the keeper with no apparent danger. Swindon had strong penalty appeals turned down by the referee when a combination of Meg Price and Char Knight seemed to bring Robyn Levett down in the box. But the ref said no. Nat Hulbert was the next Bitton player to need some treatment as she was struggling with her asthma due to the large pitch. Swindon took the lead just before half time in fortunate circumstances. Nat Hole had taken a heavy knock on her knee and was down awaiting treatment and the big gap in the middle of the defence saw Annabelle Martin use her pace to run away on goal. Gallagher was slow off her line and seemed to be caught in two minds if to come or stay. Martin poked the ball past her and the ball trickled towards the goal with Martin and Char Knight chasing, the ball struck the post and rebounded perfectly for Martin to have another go and her shot skewed straight through Knights legs as she tried to get back on the line.
The second half saw Swindon have plenty of possession without really having too many clear cut chances. Both teams seemed to be struggling with the big energy sapping pitch and the game became very slow as the players tired. Bitton huffed and puffed but never really looked threatening apart from a couple of long kicks from Gallagher one of which saw Sharifa James racing clear but instead of taking the ball in she decided to try her luck from 40 yards and saw her volley flying over the bar. Swindon doubled there advantage with a similar goal to the first a wild miss hit clearance from Nat Hole had Martin again through on goal and once again Gallagher was caught flat footed and Martin beat her to the ball and tapped into an empty net. Bitton were handed a life line with a goal of real quality. Bitton were awarded a free kick some 35 yards out and Becky Hurst stepped up to drill a shot high into the top corner for a screamer and to give Bitton a glimmer of hope. Bitton then had there best spell of the game after the goal and Becky Jones and James were pressing the Swindon defence forcing them into mistakes but they could not find a way past the strong organised Swindon back line. Nat Holes injury was now so bad she could no longer play and was replaced by Kay Haim as Bitton moved to 3 up front. Swindon enjoyed some good possession as they ran the clock down well as the Bitton girls looked shattered. Gallagher had to deal with a couple of long range efforts from Sam Quinn and Rich and Bitton had a penalty appeal turned down as the ball appeared to hit a Swindon arm in a goal mouth scramble. Bitton had one last chance as Hurst put another free kick into the box but it was headed away by the tall Moreton and the ref blew the final whistle.
A spirited performance from Bitton against the division 1 champions.Tugwell,Scrase and Hurst in particular played well but the whole squad continued to work right to the final whistle. The team must look ahead now to the league encounter with Mitcheldean next week. 3 points and the League trophy will be heading to Bitton.
Player of the match-Laura Tugwell
Straight from kick off it was noticeable that Swindon had a big height advantage with Claire Moreton at the back and Michelle Rich in midfield in particular towering above the smaller Bitton girls. Rich was probably the stand out player on the day she was a constant threat at set pieces using her height from corners and she also hit a few excellent free kicks. After a scrappy start with Annabelle Martin of Swindon showing some good pace it was Bitton who carved out the first real chance. A foul out wide gave Becky Hurst the chance to deliver a free kick into the box. She whipped a great ball into the near post where it was met by the head of Nat Hole but unfortunately the ball flew straight at Turner in the Swindon goal when she would have been helpless if the ball had directed anywhere else on target. Hurst and Laura Tugwell were combining well down the left side and causing the Swindon players some problems. Swindon then forced a couple of corners and Rich should have done better when well placed but she seemed to take her eye of the ball and missed the header.Bittons cause was not helped when Grace Baker had a reoccurrence of hamstring injury and despite trying to battle on she had to be replaced on 15 minutes by Robyn Scrase. Rich then hit a free kick from 30 yards that grazed the top of the bar before Bitton nearly took the lead with a fluke goal as a hopeful cross from Nat Hulbert nearly bounced high over the keeper with no apparent danger. Swindon had strong penalty appeals turned down by the referee when a combination of Meg Price and Char Knight seemed to bring Robyn Levett down in the box. But the ref said no. Nat Hulbert was the next Bitton player to need some treatment as she was struggling with her asthma due to the large pitch. Swindon took the lead just before half time in fortunate circumstances. Nat Hole had taken a heavy knock on her knee and was down awaiting treatment and the big gap in the middle of the defence saw Annabelle Martin use her pace to run away on goal. Gallagher was slow off her line and seemed to be caught in two minds if to come or stay. Martin poked the ball past her and the ball trickled towards the goal with Martin and Char Knight chasing, the ball struck the post and rebounded perfectly for Martin to have another go and her shot skewed straight through Knights legs as she tried to get back on the line.
The second half saw Swindon have plenty of possession without really having too many clear cut chances. Both teams seemed to be struggling with the big energy sapping pitch and the game became very slow as the players tired. Bitton huffed and puffed but never really looked threatening apart from a couple of long kicks from Gallagher one of which saw Sharifa James racing clear but instead of taking the ball in she decided to try her luck from 40 yards and saw her volley flying over the bar. Swindon doubled there advantage with a similar goal to the first a wild miss hit clearance from Nat Hole had Martin again through on goal and once again Gallagher was caught flat footed and Martin beat her to the ball and tapped into an empty net. Bitton were handed a life line with a goal of real quality. Bitton were awarded a free kick some 35 yards out and Becky Hurst stepped up to drill a shot high into the top corner for a screamer and to give Bitton a glimmer of hope. Bitton then had there best spell of the game after the goal and Becky Jones and James were pressing the Swindon defence forcing them into mistakes but they could not find a way past the strong organised Swindon back line. Nat Holes injury was now so bad she could no longer play and was replaced by Kay Haim as Bitton moved to 3 up front. Swindon enjoyed some good possession as they ran the clock down well as the Bitton girls looked shattered. Gallagher had to deal with a couple of long range efforts from Sam Quinn and Rich and Bitton had a penalty appeal turned down as the ball appeared to hit a Swindon arm in a goal mouth scramble. Bitton had one last chance as Hurst put another free kick into the box but it was headed away by the tall Moreton and the ref blew the final whistle.
A spirited performance from Bitton against the division 1 champions.Tugwell,Scrase and Hurst in particular played well but the whole squad continued to work right to the final whistle. The team must look ahead now to the league encounter with Mitcheldean next week. 3 points and the League trophy will be heading to Bitton.
Player of the match-Laura Tugwell
Cam 0 v 2 Bitton
James, B Jones
. Bitton reached the final of the League cup for the first time in there history as they overcame a stubborn Cam Bulldogs side 2-0 on Sunday thanks to goals from Sharifa James and Becky Jones. After the weeks better weather Bitton turned up at the ground to find the pitch very hard and bobbly and the grass very long so it was clear there would not be much football played and the game could be very scrappy. If ever there was a game of two halves this was it with Bitton looking very sluggish in the first half and Cam dominating possession. The second half saw Bitton step it up several gears as they produced some fast free flowing attacking football that created many chances. Nat Hole & Nat Hulbert both came back into the side at the expense of Meg price & Robyn Scrase..
Cam started on the front foot with there captain Lucy Bennet looking a real danger and also the lively Kirsty Brown up front meaning Bitton were under pressure in the opening stages. Bitton seemed to forget this was a cup semi final and were just going through the motions with no work rate, appetite for the game or desire being shown. The only exception was Natalie Hulbert on the right wing who seemed the only player up for it despite only jut coming back from having her tonsils out. Bitton were struggling to come to terms with the hard surface and time and again the ball was coming back to easily from the front two. Bitton defenders were taking too long to clear the ball as Cam shut them down quickly and put in some crunching tackles. Despite dominating possession they were struggling to break down the Solid Bitton defence with Kirsty Stone and Nat Hole proving a good partnership as they played together for the first time. Bitton had a major scare on 20 mins as the dangerous Bennet got away from Baker but screwed her shot wide when well placed. A swift counter attack involving B Jones & Hurst and L Jones saw the ball worked wide to Hulbert but she pulled her shot just wide. A couple of dangerous Bennet corners had to be dealt with by the Bitton defence before B Jones just failed to get on the end a Hurst Free Kick. Tugwell took a heavy hit to the face but bravely continued as Bitton gradually started to find some form. A great corner from Hurst was headed over by Hulbert and L Jones made a great burst from midfield but was just closed down as she was about to shoot. Bitton headed into the break slightly fortunate to be level but had dug in to keep them in the game.
After a stern talking to at half time Bitton came flying out of the blocks in the second half. For as bad as they were first half they were good in the second. Working hard to shut the cam players down moving the ball quickly and playing at a real tempo Bitton were rampant from the start. Some great balls over the top by Tuggwell caused panic in the cam defence as Bitton looked to break the deadlock. Stone& Hole were now in commanding mood winning everything and with L Jones now marking the dangerous Bennet out of the game they looked to put even more pressure on. A great ball over the top from Knight on 55 minutes saw the Bitton forwards chase the ball and rush the Cam defender into giving the corner away. Hurst whipped the corner to near post where the presence of Stone caused panic in the defence and the cam defender handled the ball to give a penalty away. Top scorer Sharifa James stepped up and smashed the ball home for her 35th goal of the season despite the keeper making a great effort and getting a hand to the ball. Rather than sit on this the Bitton girls went in search of a killer goal and they did not have to wait long. A great run by L Jones took her past several players down the left before she was chopped down. Hurst drilled the ball hard and low which caused confusion in the Cam defence and they could only clear to the edge of the box where B Jones was waiting. She hit her shot first time and saw the ball float back over the keeper head and drop into the far corner to double Bittons lead. Bitton were still clearly on top and Hurst made a couple of good runs down the left and put in some dangerous crosses. The front two of James and B Jones were now finding some space and causing problems where in the first half they could not get hold of the ball. Bitton did have a scare on 75 minutes as the dangerous Brown looked to have broken free on goal but the excellent Knight got back to make a great covering tackle. Gallagher in the Bitton goal had little to do as Cam were restricted to a couple of hopeful long range efforts. L Jones was then booked after another badly timed challenge. Bitton closed of the game at ease and were never really under any heavy pressure after the two goal burst early in the second half.
The second half showed how good Bitton can be as the defence were strong and were quick to clear the danger, Baker and L Jones controlled the midfield with Hulbert and Hurst providing some good width and James & B Jones were looking after the ball much better.
Bitton move on to the cup final now which again will be a very tough game against division 1 leaders Swindon Supermarine at Yate town on the 25th April
Player of the match-Natalie Hulbert-Everyone was good in the second half but Nat put in a good shift for 90 mins despite being ill
Cam started on the front foot with there captain Lucy Bennet looking a real danger and also the lively Kirsty Brown up front meaning Bitton were under pressure in the opening stages. Bitton seemed to forget this was a cup semi final and were just going through the motions with no work rate, appetite for the game or desire being shown. The only exception was Natalie Hulbert on the right wing who seemed the only player up for it despite only jut coming back from having her tonsils out. Bitton were struggling to come to terms with the hard surface and time and again the ball was coming back to easily from the front two. Bitton defenders were taking too long to clear the ball as Cam shut them down quickly and put in some crunching tackles. Despite dominating possession they were struggling to break down the Solid Bitton defence with Kirsty Stone and Nat Hole proving a good partnership as they played together for the first time. Bitton had a major scare on 20 mins as the dangerous Bennet got away from Baker but screwed her shot wide when well placed. A swift counter attack involving B Jones & Hurst and L Jones saw the ball worked wide to Hulbert but she pulled her shot just wide. A couple of dangerous Bennet corners had to be dealt with by the Bitton defence before B Jones just failed to get on the end a Hurst Free Kick. Tugwell took a heavy hit to the face but bravely continued as Bitton gradually started to find some form. A great corner from Hurst was headed over by Hulbert and L Jones made a great burst from midfield but was just closed down as she was about to shoot. Bitton headed into the break slightly fortunate to be level but had dug in to keep them in the game.
After a stern talking to at half time Bitton came flying out of the blocks in the second half. For as bad as they were first half they were good in the second. Working hard to shut the cam players down moving the ball quickly and playing at a real tempo Bitton were rampant from the start. Some great balls over the top by Tuggwell caused panic in the cam defence as Bitton looked to break the deadlock. Stone& Hole were now in commanding mood winning everything and with L Jones now marking the dangerous Bennet out of the game they looked to put even more pressure on. A great ball over the top from Knight on 55 minutes saw the Bitton forwards chase the ball and rush the Cam defender into giving the corner away. Hurst whipped the corner to near post where the presence of Stone caused panic in the defence and the cam defender handled the ball to give a penalty away. Top scorer Sharifa James stepped up and smashed the ball home for her 35th goal of the season despite the keeper making a great effort and getting a hand to the ball. Rather than sit on this the Bitton girls went in search of a killer goal and they did not have to wait long. A great run by L Jones took her past several players down the left before she was chopped down. Hurst drilled the ball hard and low which caused confusion in the Cam defence and they could only clear to the edge of the box where B Jones was waiting. She hit her shot first time and saw the ball float back over the keeper head and drop into the far corner to double Bittons lead. Bitton were still clearly on top and Hurst made a couple of good runs down the left and put in some dangerous crosses. The front two of James and B Jones were now finding some space and causing problems where in the first half they could not get hold of the ball. Bitton did have a scare on 75 minutes as the dangerous Brown looked to have broken free on goal but the excellent Knight got back to make a great covering tackle. Gallagher in the Bitton goal had little to do as Cam were restricted to a couple of hopeful long range efforts. L Jones was then booked after another badly timed challenge. Bitton closed of the game at ease and were never really under any heavy pressure after the two goal burst early in the second half.
The second half showed how good Bitton can be as the defence were strong and were quick to clear the danger, Baker and L Jones controlled the midfield with Hulbert and Hurst providing some good width and James & B Jones were looking after the ball much better.
Bitton move on to the cup final now which again will be a very tough game against division 1 leaders Swindon Supermarine at Yate town on the 25th April
Player of the match-Natalie Hulbert-Everyone was good in the second half but Nat put in a good shift for 90 mins despite being ill
Boco 2 v 1 Bitton
Hurst
Becky Hurst scores to give Bitton hope
Bitton tasted defeat in the league for the first time this season as they went down 2-1 to local rivals AEK Boco.Goals from Jess Sedgsby & Lucy Dinham gave Boco the advantage with Becky Hurst pulling one back late on from a free kick. Already Missing Nat Hole,Natalie Hulbert and Holly Fox bitton had to deal with the injury to Meg price which meant Kayleigh Haim coming off the bench for her Bitton debut and first game in 3 years.Bitton had gone into the game having only conceded one league goal all season but their lead has now been cut to a single point, although they have a game in hand over their local rivals
Not surprisingly after the amount of rain over the weekend the pitch was very wet but the driving wind coming down the pitch meant the eagerly anticipated game went ahead with Boco looking to claw back the points on Bitton.The opening 10 minutes were very scrappy with both teams looking to get a grip on the game .
The wind at Greenbank Road was playing a big role and Boco used it to good advantage in the first half as they put the Bitton defence under pressure. They went in front in the 24th minute as Jess Segesdy burst into the area before planting a low shot past Chloe Gallagher and into the far corner of the net for her 23rd goal of the season. Meg price was then withdrawn after trying to play on despite being injured. This meant a reshuffle now with no recognized centre backs. Char Knight moved into the centre with Kirsty Stone and Robyn Scrase moved to right back. Kayleigh Haim came in at Right midfield for her Bitton debut and performed very well considering she has not played for so long.Boco had a penalty appeal turned down as sedgsby wriggled free in the box and went down under the challenge from Kirsty stone but the ref waved play on. Boco were having the better of things in midfield at this stage and their defence stayed strong against Bitton's lively strike duo of Sharifa James and Becky Jones, who went closest when Hurst fired wide following a clever back hell by Becky Jones.Both defences were on top and Boco were restricted to a couple of long range efforts which Gallagher dealt with comfortably.
The second half saw Bitton try and pick up the pace with Leanne Jones prompting in midfield but it was Boco who were to double their lead ten minutes after the restart. Sasha Ferris broke into the area where she was brought down by Kirsty Stone and a penalty was awarded despite no appeal and most people thinking the free kick should have went the other way. Lucy Dinham stepped up and buried her shot emphatically into the top corner, giving Gallagher no chance
Alice Durston went close to adding a third but could not direct her header on target from a Ferris corner. Boco continued to press with wide players Kelly Cutler and Sophie Wyatt impressing and Bitton needed some alert defending to keep them in the game.
Bitton started to push forward in an attempt to get themselves back in the game but 33-goal striker James was well shackled by Sammi Hollis who had an outstanding match in defence for Boco. Nevertheless the league leaders snatched a lifeline with seventeen minutes remaining, Hurst curling home a well taken free kick from just outside the area. A dangerous free kick from Hurst nearly saw Stone getting on the end of it but Gemma Street in the Boco goal claimed well. Now Bitton sensed an equaliser and won a number of corners but Boco stood firm under the increasing pressure. Bitton had penalty appeals rejected when Leanne Jones went down under a challenge while at the other end, it took a great saving tackle from Charlotte Knight to deny Lorna Miller the chance to increase Boco's lead. With both defences in good form, chances were restricted and the final opportunity of the game came in injury time as James cut in from the left but lifted her shot high and wide.
Boco deserved there victory as they were the better side on the day. There advantage of a reserves and having a big squad paid off as Bitton were down to the bare bones and had several players playing on despite injury. Having said that Bitton never really got going in this game and there were plenty of players who had an off day. Getting to April before losing is some achievement for a team that has struggled for the past 2 years but now the record has gone they can concentrate on next weeks semi final against Cam Bulldogs and there remaining league fixtures.
Player of the Match-Charlotte Knight-Adapted to a new position and kept going for the whole game
AEK Boco: Gemma Street, Briony Harris, Vicki Barlow, Lucy Dinham, Sammi Hollis, Kelly Cutler, Sasha Ferris, Alice Durston, Sophie Wyatt, Lorna Miller, Jess Segesdy. Subs: Louise Jacomb, Natalie Gadsby, Kerrie-Ann Smith, Lara Ferris.
Bitton: Chloe Gallagher, Charlotte Knight, Laura Tugwell, Meg Price, Kirsty Stone, Robyn Scrase, Becky Jones, Sharifa James, Grace Baker, Leanne Jones, Becky Hurst. Sub: Kaylee Haim
Not surprisingly after the amount of rain over the weekend the pitch was very wet but the driving wind coming down the pitch meant the eagerly anticipated game went ahead with Boco looking to claw back the points on Bitton.The opening 10 minutes were very scrappy with both teams looking to get a grip on the game .
The wind at Greenbank Road was playing a big role and Boco used it to good advantage in the first half as they put the Bitton defence under pressure. They went in front in the 24th minute as Jess Segesdy burst into the area before planting a low shot past Chloe Gallagher and into the far corner of the net for her 23rd goal of the season. Meg price was then withdrawn after trying to play on despite being injured. This meant a reshuffle now with no recognized centre backs. Char Knight moved into the centre with Kirsty Stone and Robyn Scrase moved to right back. Kayleigh Haim came in at Right midfield for her Bitton debut and performed very well considering she has not played for so long.Boco had a penalty appeal turned down as sedgsby wriggled free in the box and went down under the challenge from Kirsty stone but the ref waved play on. Boco were having the better of things in midfield at this stage and their defence stayed strong against Bitton's lively strike duo of Sharifa James and Becky Jones, who went closest when Hurst fired wide following a clever back hell by Becky Jones.Both defences were on top and Boco were restricted to a couple of long range efforts which Gallagher dealt with comfortably.
The second half saw Bitton try and pick up the pace with Leanne Jones prompting in midfield but it was Boco who were to double their lead ten minutes after the restart. Sasha Ferris broke into the area where she was brought down by Kirsty Stone and a penalty was awarded despite no appeal and most people thinking the free kick should have went the other way. Lucy Dinham stepped up and buried her shot emphatically into the top corner, giving Gallagher no chance
Alice Durston went close to adding a third but could not direct her header on target from a Ferris corner. Boco continued to press with wide players Kelly Cutler and Sophie Wyatt impressing and Bitton needed some alert defending to keep them in the game.
Bitton started to push forward in an attempt to get themselves back in the game but 33-goal striker James was well shackled by Sammi Hollis who had an outstanding match in defence for Boco. Nevertheless the league leaders snatched a lifeline with seventeen minutes remaining, Hurst curling home a well taken free kick from just outside the area. A dangerous free kick from Hurst nearly saw Stone getting on the end of it but Gemma Street in the Boco goal claimed well. Now Bitton sensed an equaliser and won a number of corners but Boco stood firm under the increasing pressure. Bitton had penalty appeals rejected when Leanne Jones went down under a challenge while at the other end, it took a great saving tackle from Charlotte Knight to deny Lorna Miller the chance to increase Boco's lead. With both defences in good form, chances were restricted and the final opportunity of the game came in injury time as James cut in from the left but lifted her shot high and wide.
Boco deserved there victory as they were the better side on the day. There advantage of a reserves and having a big squad paid off as Bitton were down to the bare bones and had several players playing on despite injury. Having said that Bitton never really got going in this game and there were plenty of players who had an off day. Getting to April before losing is some achievement for a team that has struggled for the past 2 years but now the record has gone they can concentrate on next weeks semi final against Cam Bulldogs and there remaining league fixtures.
Player of the Match-Charlotte Knight-Adapted to a new position and kept going for the whole game
AEK Boco: Gemma Street, Briony Harris, Vicki Barlow, Lucy Dinham, Sammi Hollis, Kelly Cutler, Sasha Ferris, Alice Durston, Sophie Wyatt, Lorna Miller, Jess Segesdy. Subs: Louise Jacomb, Natalie Gadsby, Kerrie-Ann Smith, Lara Ferris.
Bitton: Chloe Gallagher, Charlotte Knight, Laura Tugwell, Meg Price, Kirsty Stone, Robyn Scrase, Becky Jones, Sharifa James, Grace Baker, Leanne Jones, Becky Hurst. Sub: Kaylee Haim
St Nicholas1 v 2 Bitton AET
Baker,James
Tuggs wins the tackle
Bitton reached the semi final of the league cup for the first time in there history as they won a tough game against a good St Nicholas. With Hannah Sims now having left for the states and Nat Hole on holiday Bitton were forced to shuffle the back as Kirsty Stone dropped in at the back and Grace Baker continued in the middle of midfield with Nat Hulbert wide on the right. St Nicks are top of there league and are just used to winning having not tasted defeat in 3 years so before the game Bitton knew they had a tough job on there hands.
Bitton started with the strong wind at there backs and this wind was to prove to be a key factor during the game.St Nicks were the first to settle and the excellent Amy Jeffries was looking dangerous with some probing runs down the right and some decent delivery into the box. Kirsty Stone and Meg Price set the tone for the game early on though with some strong defending and crunching tackles letting the home side know they were in for a game. St Nicks were playing a high line and a number of balls played over the top threatened but with the strong wind and hard pitch the ball kept running away from James and B Jones as they chased looking for a sniff at goal. Gallagher was tested a couple of times with a few long range efforts before Bitton almost took the lead from a Hurst corner that was whipped in and missed by the St Nicks keeper but Hulbert could not quite stab the ball home when stretching at the far post. Hurst then had a strong run down the left before being fouled and from the resulting free kick the keeper pulled off a great save as Hursts shot looked destined for the top corner. B Jones nearly forced a chance when she chased a lost cause and the St Nicks defence hesitated but just as she was about to pull the trigger the keeper rushed off her line. A lot of the spectators on the side line commented what a great game of football this was between two evenly matched sides that have both been used to easy victories this year. Both teams were fully committed and it was clear the game would probably be won by the odd goal.
St Nicks were looking to use to wind at there backs in the second half but Bitton defended well and Gallagher was quick off her line to clear many dangerous situations. L Jones was really putting in a shift in midfield and seemed to be everywhere as St Nicks had there best spell of the game forcing Bitton back. The young home side were unlucky when Cydney Ramsey found space on the edge of the area and her shot just beat Gallagher but struck the bar and Knight was on hand to clear the danger. Tugwell,Price,Stone and Knight were working well together and forcing St Nicks to take long range shots on that Gallagher was dealing comfortably with. With defences on top at both ends the game was still 0-0 at 90 mins so for the second time this season Bitton went to extra time.
There experience of the extra period at Cirencester in the GFA cup seemed to prove useful for Bitton as they really started strongly in the first period. With the wind still strong Bitton looked to pin St Nicks back in the opening period and after a couple of long range efforts from James and Stone. B Jones picked up a booking for dissent after the referee and Linesman both got the same decision clearly wrong. Bitton then produced the first goal. The ball was fed into B Jones who helped the ball onto Baker who had broken from midfield. Taking the ball on her right foot she produced a great bit of skill to skip past the covering defender and moved the ball onto her left peg where she seemed to scuff the ball slightly but the strike had just enough power to beat the keeper and give Bitton the lead. With only 5 minutes gone Bitton would probably need another goal as they knew St Nicks would come on strong so they continued to press. St Nicks almost replied straight away as a clumsy looking challenge from Tugwell on Jeffries in the box saw the ref point to the spot. None of the St Nicks players seemed to want to take the kick but eventually it was there top scorer Adelle Hopper who was given the chance. Gallagher made herself big as she tried to put the taker off and it worked as Hooper blazed the ball high and wide. The referee continued his strange afternoon of decisions as he missed a blatant hand ball by a St nicks player in the midfield before the ball was eventually cleared for a corner. A great delivery into the box saw St Nicks captain Jess Wilson rise highest and power a great header into the corner to bring the scores back level. The Bitton girls looked dejected but continued to work there socks off in hope of a piece of magic from someone. That piece of magic came just before the break as James picked the ball up 35yards from goal and despite looking offside hit a thunderous volley that gave the keeper no chance and nestle in the top corner to make it 2-1.The ref found 5 mins injury time in this period which gave St Nicks one last chance before the break as a snap shot from the edge of the box hit the bar again and was cleared to safety by the excellent Price. Tugwell was then also booked for throwing the ball away.
Bitton knew it would it be tough with the wind against them but they showed great determination and team spirit and also showed great fitness levels to keep out a probing St Nicks. Ruby Bagge was getting forward a bit from left back and a couple of long throws caused a few problems but Bitton defended well and were frustrating the home side when keeping possession well and putting the ball in the St Nicks half where there was no danger. They had a couple of long range efforts but in truth Gallagher was not really tested as the clocked edged towards 120 Mins. Jefferies looked to have got away from Stone at one point but Gallagher was quick off her line to block. The referee then amazingly found 7 mins injury time in the second period as Bitton did well to keep the ball in the corner. Finally he blew the whistle so cue some good celebrations from the Bitton girls leaving some of the St Nicks players in tears.
A very close game between two well matched sides who are both in the habit of winning easily this year. Yeas Bitton rode there luck at times during the game but in football you make your own luck by working hard and doing the right things. Bitton can now look forward to there first appearance in a semi final as they travel to Cam Bulldogs
Player of the match-Leanne Jones-mammoth performance from Joner as she cover every inch of the pitch in a determined performance despite injury.Great team display though
Bitton started with the strong wind at there backs and this wind was to prove to be a key factor during the game.St Nicks were the first to settle and the excellent Amy Jeffries was looking dangerous with some probing runs down the right and some decent delivery into the box. Kirsty Stone and Meg Price set the tone for the game early on though with some strong defending and crunching tackles letting the home side know they were in for a game. St Nicks were playing a high line and a number of balls played over the top threatened but with the strong wind and hard pitch the ball kept running away from James and B Jones as they chased looking for a sniff at goal. Gallagher was tested a couple of times with a few long range efforts before Bitton almost took the lead from a Hurst corner that was whipped in and missed by the St Nicks keeper but Hulbert could not quite stab the ball home when stretching at the far post. Hurst then had a strong run down the left before being fouled and from the resulting free kick the keeper pulled off a great save as Hursts shot looked destined for the top corner. B Jones nearly forced a chance when she chased a lost cause and the St Nicks defence hesitated but just as she was about to pull the trigger the keeper rushed off her line. A lot of the spectators on the side line commented what a great game of football this was between two evenly matched sides that have both been used to easy victories this year. Both teams were fully committed and it was clear the game would probably be won by the odd goal.
St Nicks were looking to use to wind at there backs in the second half but Bitton defended well and Gallagher was quick off her line to clear many dangerous situations. L Jones was really putting in a shift in midfield and seemed to be everywhere as St Nicks had there best spell of the game forcing Bitton back. The young home side were unlucky when Cydney Ramsey found space on the edge of the area and her shot just beat Gallagher but struck the bar and Knight was on hand to clear the danger. Tugwell,Price,Stone and Knight were working well together and forcing St Nicks to take long range shots on that Gallagher was dealing comfortably with. With defences on top at both ends the game was still 0-0 at 90 mins so for the second time this season Bitton went to extra time.
There experience of the extra period at Cirencester in the GFA cup seemed to prove useful for Bitton as they really started strongly in the first period. With the wind still strong Bitton looked to pin St Nicks back in the opening period and after a couple of long range efforts from James and Stone. B Jones picked up a booking for dissent after the referee and Linesman both got the same decision clearly wrong. Bitton then produced the first goal. The ball was fed into B Jones who helped the ball onto Baker who had broken from midfield. Taking the ball on her right foot she produced a great bit of skill to skip past the covering defender and moved the ball onto her left peg where she seemed to scuff the ball slightly but the strike had just enough power to beat the keeper and give Bitton the lead. With only 5 minutes gone Bitton would probably need another goal as they knew St Nicks would come on strong so they continued to press. St Nicks almost replied straight away as a clumsy looking challenge from Tugwell on Jeffries in the box saw the ref point to the spot. None of the St Nicks players seemed to want to take the kick but eventually it was there top scorer Adelle Hopper who was given the chance. Gallagher made herself big as she tried to put the taker off and it worked as Hooper blazed the ball high and wide. The referee continued his strange afternoon of decisions as he missed a blatant hand ball by a St nicks player in the midfield before the ball was eventually cleared for a corner. A great delivery into the box saw St Nicks captain Jess Wilson rise highest and power a great header into the corner to bring the scores back level. The Bitton girls looked dejected but continued to work there socks off in hope of a piece of magic from someone. That piece of magic came just before the break as James picked the ball up 35yards from goal and despite looking offside hit a thunderous volley that gave the keeper no chance and nestle in the top corner to make it 2-1.The ref found 5 mins injury time in this period which gave St Nicks one last chance before the break as a snap shot from the edge of the box hit the bar again and was cleared to safety by the excellent Price. Tugwell was then also booked for throwing the ball away.
Bitton knew it would it be tough with the wind against them but they showed great determination and team spirit and also showed great fitness levels to keep out a probing St Nicks. Ruby Bagge was getting forward a bit from left back and a couple of long throws caused a few problems but Bitton defended well and were frustrating the home side when keeping possession well and putting the ball in the St Nicks half where there was no danger. They had a couple of long range efforts but in truth Gallagher was not really tested as the clocked edged towards 120 Mins. Jefferies looked to have got away from Stone at one point but Gallagher was quick off her line to block. The referee then amazingly found 7 mins injury time in the second period as Bitton did well to keep the ball in the corner. Finally he blew the whistle so cue some good celebrations from the Bitton girls leaving some of the St Nicks players in tears.
A very close game between two well matched sides who are both in the habit of winning easily this year. Yeas Bitton rode there luck at times during the game but in football you make your own luck by working hard and doing the right things. Bitton can now look forward to there first appearance in a semi final as they travel to Cam Bulldogs
Player of the match-Leanne Jones-mammoth performance from Joner as she cover every inch of the pitch in a determined performance despite injury.Great team display though
Mitcheldean 0 v 8 Bitton
James(2) Hurst(2) L Jones, B Jones,Tugwell,Hulbert
Bitton picked up another 3 points as they swept aside Mitcheldean by 8 clear goals. Chloe Gallagher was a virtual spectator for the whole game in the Bitton goal and despite not being at there best and being able to afford the luxury of missing two penalties they still had far too much firepower for an improved Mitcheldean team. With regulars Char Knight, Hannah Sims and Kirsty Stone missing Bitton were forced into a reshuffle as Grace Baker came back into the midfield after a long injury lay off with Nat Hulbert starting on the right and Holly Fox slotting in at right back.
After the usual excitement of an away game with players getting lost the kick off was delayed by 10 mins and then another 30 seconds as Grace Baker casually strolled out onto the pitch as the teams were already lined up to kick off. The lack of a warm up and no team talk seemed to show in the early Bitton play as they looked lethargic and sloppy in possesion.It was clear from early on that Mitcheldean were happy to get everyone behind the ball and defend deep not allowing Bitton any space.Price,Hole and Gallagher probably had there easiest afternoon of the season as they dealt comfortably with everything all day. Tugwell signalled her intent early on with several probing runs down the left linking up well with Becky Hurst who clearly had the beating of her full back. Bitton started to step it up a gear and L Jones was really dominating the midfield and making some tremendous runs in the box and was particularly unlucky with one headed effort. They had the perfect chance to open the scoring when a Mitcheldean played tried to clear a Hulbert cross and the ball struck her hand and the referee awarded a penalty. B Jones struck her shot well and the ball smashed the cross bar appeared to bounced over the line and back onto the bar and away but neither the ref or Linesman were well enough placed and play was waved on.Bitton did not have long to wait however as Becky H hit her only decent corner of the afternoon right under the Mitcheldean bar and the could not deal with it as the ball dropped into the net. The opening goal seemed to kick start the Bitton girls and the next 20 minutes play was superb with some excellent passing and movement which saw them, open up the Mitchldean defence time and again. it was 2-0 on 25 Minutes as a superb pass from Hulbert saw James racing clear on goal and the leagues top scorer made no mistake as she stroked the ball past the advancing keeper.Another wonderful flowing move saw Hurst torment her marker once again down the left and fire in a cross that saw Hulbert produce a brave diving header at the far post for a great goal. Bitton were now rampant and a couple more crosses from Hurst were closing to being put away as Bitton flooded the box. A dangerous cross from Price was nearly headed in at the far post before Bitton scored the goal of the game. After a couple of neat passes James produced a cheeky back heel to put Hurst clear in the box after evading one challenge she knocked the ball back to James and from fully 30 yards she curled a superb effort with the outside of her right boot that flew into the top corner. With Tugwell continuing to be very vocal and encourage her team mates bitton continued to pile forward and it was L Jones who got Bittons 5th as she tapped home another cross from the left from close range.
Safe in the knowledge that Bittons excellent defence were well in control Bitton were allowed the freedom to express themselves in the second half and despite pouring forward for the whole half they never found there top gear and it became quite scrappy at times. After 60 minutes B Jones was given a chance to make up for earlier penalty miss after another hand ball in the box but this time she hit her shot weakly straight at the keeper.Bitton continued to press and after a heavy challenge in the box the referee pointed to the spot for the 3rd time in the game. This time Hurst took over the duties and hit her shot low to the keepers left to make it 6-0. Baker was really starting to play now and showing glimpses or her form at the start of the season and with Scrase supporting well after replacing Fox it was only a matter of time before Bitton got another. B Jones finally got her goal after receiving a pass across the face of the box her first time shot flew over the stranded Mitchldean Keeper. Bitton must have won 20 corners during the game but the usual good delivery from Hurst was missing today and time and again the ball was not making the near post.L Jones went close on a couple of occasions and her midfield partner Baker almost scored a great goal as she beat 3 defenders down the right but her shot hit the side netting. Tugwell got the goal she deserved for a committed display when she ran from deep exchanged passing with B Jones and held off the defenders challenge to drill home.
Not at there fluent best but a completely dominant display with some impressive performances.Even with players missing the defence looked so confident and at times were allowed the freedom to bring the ball forward with ease. The Midfield functioned well and all looked dangerous and full of goals and the strikers have now scored 44 goals in only 14 games this season.
Player of the match-Laura Tugwell-Showed a great attitude with constant encouragement and got forward well all afternoon capped with a great goal
After the usual excitement of an away game with players getting lost the kick off was delayed by 10 mins and then another 30 seconds as Grace Baker casually strolled out onto the pitch as the teams were already lined up to kick off. The lack of a warm up and no team talk seemed to show in the early Bitton play as they looked lethargic and sloppy in possesion.It was clear from early on that Mitcheldean were happy to get everyone behind the ball and defend deep not allowing Bitton any space.Price,Hole and Gallagher probably had there easiest afternoon of the season as they dealt comfortably with everything all day. Tugwell signalled her intent early on with several probing runs down the left linking up well with Becky Hurst who clearly had the beating of her full back. Bitton started to step it up a gear and L Jones was really dominating the midfield and making some tremendous runs in the box and was particularly unlucky with one headed effort. They had the perfect chance to open the scoring when a Mitcheldean played tried to clear a Hulbert cross and the ball struck her hand and the referee awarded a penalty. B Jones struck her shot well and the ball smashed the cross bar appeared to bounced over the line and back onto the bar and away but neither the ref or Linesman were well enough placed and play was waved on.Bitton did not have long to wait however as Becky H hit her only decent corner of the afternoon right under the Mitcheldean bar and the could not deal with it as the ball dropped into the net. The opening goal seemed to kick start the Bitton girls and the next 20 minutes play was superb with some excellent passing and movement which saw them, open up the Mitchldean defence time and again. it was 2-0 on 25 Minutes as a superb pass from Hulbert saw James racing clear on goal and the leagues top scorer made no mistake as she stroked the ball past the advancing keeper.Another wonderful flowing move saw Hurst torment her marker once again down the left and fire in a cross that saw Hulbert produce a brave diving header at the far post for a great goal. Bitton were now rampant and a couple more crosses from Hurst were closing to being put away as Bitton flooded the box. A dangerous cross from Price was nearly headed in at the far post before Bitton scored the goal of the game. After a couple of neat passes James produced a cheeky back heel to put Hurst clear in the box after evading one challenge she knocked the ball back to James and from fully 30 yards she curled a superb effort with the outside of her right boot that flew into the top corner. With Tugwell continuing to be very vocal and encourage her team mates bitton continued to pile forward and it was L Jones who got Bittons 5th as she tapped home another cross from the left from close range.
Safe in the knowledge that Bittons excellent defence were well in control Bitton were allowed the freedom to express themselves in the second half and despite pouring forward for the whole half they never found there top gear and it became quite scrappy at times. After 60 minutes B Jones was given a chance to make up for earlier penalty miss after another hand ball in the box but this time she hit her shot weakly straight at the keeper.Bitton continued to press and after a heavy challenge in the box the referee pointed to the spot for the 3rd time in the game. This time Hurst took over the duties and hit her shot low to the keepers left to make it 6-0. Baker was really starting to play now and showing glimpses or her form at the start of the season and with Scrase supporting well after replacing Fox it was only a matter of time before Bitton got another. B Jones finally got her goal after receiving a pass across the face of the box her first time shot flew over the stranded Mitchldean Keeper. Bitton must have won 20 corners during the game but the usual good delivery from Hurst was missing today and time and again the ball was not making the near post.L Jones went close on a couple of occasions and her midfield partner Baker almost scored a great goal as she beat 3 defenders down the right but her shot hit the side netting. Tugwell got the goal she deserved for a committed display when she ran from deep exchanged passing with B Jones and held off the defenders challenge to drill home.
Not at there fluent best but a completely dominant display with some impressive performances.Even with players missing the defence looked so confident and at times were allowed the freedom to bring the ball forward with ease. The Midfield functioned well and all looked dangerous and full of goals and the strikers have now scored 44 goals in only 14 games this season.
Player of the match-Laura Tugwell-Showed a great attitude with constant encouragement and got forward well all afternoon capped with a great goal
Cirencester 1 v 0 Bitton AET
Bitton exited this seasons GFA cup and in the process suffered there first defeat of the season. In a tight game against South west womens eastern division leaders an extra time penalty from Franny Wilson won it for the home side.
On a very heavy boggy pitch the game started at a frantic pace and it took Bitton a while to settle as the home side got used to the conditions quicker and moved the ball around well. The Bitton defence were once again on top form though and set the tone for the afternoon with some early crunching tackles from Nat Hole and Meg Price. Laura Tugwell looked really up for this game and put in a superb performance at left back and Char knight was her usual consistent self. As the game wore on Hannah Sims & Kirst Stone began to get a grip in the middle of midfield and started supplying the wide players of Leanne Jones & Becky Hurst who both looked full of running.The front pairing of Sharifa James & Becky Jones were both asked to play despite being only around 50% fit and battled hard all day but in truth was obvious from early on neither player should really have been on the field. Without the willing runners up top Despite some great play Bitton would time and again find the ball coming straight back at them as the Cirencester defence over powered the Bitton attack. Despite dominating possession early on Cirencester did not create any clear cut shots and a couple of long range efforts were easily dealt with by the excellent Chloe Gallagher. The first real chance of the game fell to Bitton and on reflection was probably the best chance of the entire match as a long cross from Leanne Jones evaded the Cirncester defense and found Becky Jones only 8 yards out. She had a good first touch but as she swiveled to strike the keeper rushed out and made a great block. Gallagher had to deal with a number of free kicks one which shaved the cross bar and after a number of fouls Nat Hole was booked. Bitton had a lucky escape just before the break as Hole and Leanne Jones both dived in inside the box to make tackle and from the sidelines it looked like Hole had taken the player out but the referee waved play on.
Leanne Jones continued to look Bittons most dangerous attacking player but the effect of the heavy pitch was beginning to tell on some heavy Bitton legs. Once again Cirencester had a fair shout of possession but the defence was standing firm and restricting them to long range efforts. Bitton continued to work hard and it was they who created another great chance when a magical run from Leanne Jones took her past 4 defenders to the edge of the box where she slipped the ball to Becky Jones put she pulled her weak shot wide of the near post. Bitton looked like breaking the deadlock 10 minutes later as a swift counter attack saw a superb pass from Becky Jones set sharifa James racing clear. She cut back onto her left foot beating the defender but once again the keeper came flying out to block her goal bound effort. Both Meg Price and Leanne Jones then made last ditch tackles to stop cirencester getting a shot away as some tired player played out the remaining minutes of the 90.
By the start of extra time both players looked out on there feet but it was Cirencester who got that ounce of good fortune that was to split the teams as in the 5th minute of extra time a ball over the top saw Leanne Jones and the striker collide in the box and with both players going to the ground the Referee decided it was Jones who fouled and pointed to the penalty spot. Franny Wilson stepped up for the home side and drilled the ball into the corner to give them the lead.Bitton immediately made a tactical switch pushing Becky Hurst up top and bringing Grace Baker who had replaced Becky Jones back into midfield. The pitch was now a mud bath and the game was a just a pure battle with both players fully committed and no quarter given. The game was marred by a nasty injury right on the stroke of half time as a stray boot caught Grace Baker in the side of the head leading to a nasty injury for which she needed hospital treatment. Robyn Scrase replaced Baker as L Jones pushed up front to form a 3 pronged attack with Hurst and James. Bitton dominated the first 10 minutes constantly putting balls forward but with the players now looking completely shattered it was hard to get off any decent shots. With Bitton pressing so hard for an equaliser there was gaps left at the back and Gallagher had to come off her line to block a shot after a quick breakaway. The sight of a team 2 divisions higher taking the ball into the corner late on and asking the ref to blow up proves how worried they were and how close this game was but in the end it was not to be.
A absolutely massive performance from the Bitton girls who gave everything for the entire 120 minutes and were only beaten by dubious penalty.Cirencester shaded possession and have some excellent quick young players in there team but it was Bitton who created the 3 best chances from open play and on another day the result could have been different. We wish Cirencester good luck in there semi final.
Player of the match-Team Award- A great all round performance with everyone working there socks off and so unlucky not to sneak a result against higher league opponents.
On a very heavy boggy pitch the game started at a frantic pace and it took Bitton a while to settle as the home side got used to the conditions quicker and moved the ball around well. The Bitton defence were once again on top form though and set the tone for the afternoon with some early crunching tackles from Nat Hole and Meg Price. Laura Tugwell looked really up for this game and put in a superb performance at left back and Char knight was her usual consistent self. As the game wore on Hannah Sims & Kirst Stone began to get a grip in the middle of midfield and started supplying the wide players of Leanne Jones & Becky Hurst who both looked full of running.The front pairing of Sharifa James & Becky Jones were both asked to play despite being only around 50% fit and battled hard all day but in truth was obvious from early on neither player should really have been on the field. Without the willing runners up top Despite some great play Bitton would time and again find the ball coming straight back at them as the Cirencester defence over powered the Bitton attack. Despite dominating possession early on Cirencester did not create any clear cut shots and a couple of long range efforts were easily dealt with by the excellent Chloe Gallagher. The first real chance of the game fell to Bitton and on reflection was probably the best chance of the entire match as a long cross from Leanne Jones evaded the Cirncester defense and found Becky Jones only 8 yards out. She had a good first touch but as she swiveled to strike the keeper rushed out and made a great block. Gallagher had to deal with a number of free kicks one which shaved the cross bar and after a number of fouls Nat Hole was booked. Bitton had a lucky escape just before the break as Hole and Leanne Jones both dived in inside the box to make tackle and from the sidelines it looked like Hole had taken the player out but the referee waved play on.
Leanne Jones continued to look Bittons most dangerous attacking player but the effect of the heavy pitch was beginning to tell on some heavy Bitton legs. Once again Cirencester had a fair shout of possession but the defence was standing firm and restricting them to long range efforts. Bitton continued to work hard and it was they who created another great chance when a magical run from Leanne Jones took her past 4 defenders to the edge of the box where she slipped the ball to Becky Jones put she pulled her weak shot wide of the near post. Bitton looked like breaking the deadlock 10 minutes later as a swift counter attack saw a superb pass from Becky Jones set sharifa James racing clear. She cut back onto her left foot beating the defender but once again the keeper came flying out to block her goal bound effort. Both Meg Price and Leanne Jones then made last ditch tackles to stop cirencester getting a shot away as some tired player played out the remaining minutes of the 90.
By the start of extra time both players looked out on there feet but it was Cirencester who got that ounce of good fortune that was to split the teams as in the 5th minute of extra time a ball over the top saw Leanne Jones and the striker collide in the box and with both players going to the ground the Referee decided it was Jones who fouled and pointed to the penalty spot. Franny Wilson stepped up for the home side and drilled the ball into the corner to give them the lead.Bitton immediately made a tactical switch pushing Becky Hurst up top and bringing Grace Baker who had replaced Becky Jones back into midfield. The pitch was now a mud bath and the game was a just a pure battle with both players fully committed and no quarter given. The game was marred by a nasty injury right on the stroke of half time as a stray boot caught Grace Baker in the side of the head leading to a nasty injury for which she needed hospital treatment. Robyn Scrase replaced Baker as L Jones pushed up front to form a 3 pronged attack with Hurst and James. Bitton dominated the first 10 minutes constantly putting balls forward but with the players now looking completely shattered it was hard to get off any decent shots. With Bitton pressing so hard for an equaliser there was gaps left at the back and Gallagher had to come off her line to block a shot after a quick breakaway. The sight of a team 2 divisions higher taking the ball into the corner late on and asking the ref to blow up proves how worried they were and how close this game was but in the end it was not to be.
A absolutely massive performance from the Bitton girls who gave everything for the entire 120 minutes and were only beaten by dubious penalty.Cirencester shaded possession and have some excellent quick young players in there team but it was Bitton who created the 3 best chances from open play and on another day the result could have been different. We wish Cirencester good luck in there semi final.
Player of the match-Team Award- A great all round performance with everyone working there socks off and so unlucky not to sneak a result against higher league opponents.
Cheltenham Spa 0 v 5 Bitton
B Jones(2) James Sims,Stone
The teams line up for kick off
Bitton moved 13 points clear at the top with this impressive win against a strong Cheltenham Spa side. Becky Jones(2) Sharifa James, Kirsty Stone and Hannah Sims did the damage as Bitton produced one of there best performances of the season.
After a nightmare start to the afternoon that saw two players deciding they wanted to have a look around the shops in Cheltenham centre instead of turning up at the ground. Bitton took to the field for this important game with no real warm up or team talk due to the late arrival of the players and lined up with Kirsty Stone slotting in at the back to replace the missing Nat Hole. The lack of preparation did not seem to matter as Bitton took the lead after only 90 seconds with a goal of the highest quality. Becky Jones and Becky Hurst exchanged passes before Jones played a defence splitting ball through to Sharifa James who just got there before the rushing keeper to poke the ball home. It was clear from early on the game would be won in the centre of midfield and Leanne Jones and Hannah Sims were superb all afternoon dominating there opponents with some crunching tackles and excellent passing moves. Bitton doubled the lead with a rare sight as finally we produced a goal from a Becky Hurst corner. Hurst whipped the ball in and some good movement allowed Kirsty Stone to power her header into the bottom corner. Chloe Gallagher was marshalling her defnce well and Stone and Meg Price in particular were looking very strong and in no mood to give up the amazing clean sheet record. Knight and Tugwell were also covering well and also managing to bomb forward at every opportunity. It was Tugwell who created the third for Bitton as she played a ball over the top of a high Cheltneham defence for B Jones to run onto with a clear path to goal. The keeper came rushing out as Jones tried to dink the ball over her but the keeper made a good save only for the ball to rebound back off Jones and head towards the goal where she finished from 6 yards as the covering defenders scrambled back.Bitton continued to play some beautiful football with some great one touch passing and Becky Hurst put over a couple of dangerous crosses that nearly resulted in goals with Sims and Robyn Scrase both having shots blocked. Gallagher had to deal with a couple of corners but Bitton were looking fairly comfortable.
Bitton started the second half as they did the first and effectively wrapped the game up 5 minutes after the break when Sims had a shot from the edge of the area. The keeper looked to have got it but it somehow slipped out of her fingers and trickled over the line to give Sims her fourth goal in as many games. L Jones was continuing to get through a lot of work marking there dangerous skipper Alison Hunt and her work was allowing the rest of the team to continue to attack and it was game over on 60 minutes when a long cross field ball from James found B Jones on her own in the box and she took a touch before smashing the ball home for her 10th of the season. James nearly scored when she ran through but just failed to round the keeper as she looked certain to score. Bitton continued to press and Char Knight tried her luck from 40 yards before Bitton introduced Grace Baker, Holly Fox and Sara Tucker from the bench. Gallagher made a smart save when she rushed out to block an attacker who was through but mainly the last 20 minutes passed by without any real chances at either end. L Jones was finally released from her shackles as there captain left the field due to an injury and she could have got on the score sheet as she had a couple of half chances but failed to hit the target.
A much better performance where the whole squad looked on top of there game and once we got the early goals the result was never in doubt. We now have a couple of weeks break from league action as we concentrate on the cup competitions
Player of the match- Leanne Jones- Great work rate all game and was good on the ball. Stopped there dangerous captain having any impact on the game.
After a nightmare start to the afternoon that saw two players deciding they wanted to have a look around the shops in Cheltenham centre instead of turning up at the ground. Bitton took to the field for this important game with no real warm up or team talk due to the late arrival of the players and lined up with Kirsty Stone slotting in at the back to replace the missing Nat Hole. The lack of preparation did not seem to matter as Bitton took the lead after only 90 seconds with a goal of the highest quality. Becky Jones and Becky Hurst exchanged passes before Jones played a defence splitting ball through to Sharifa James who just got there before the rushing keeper to poke the ball home. It was clear from early on the game would be won in the centre of midfield and Leanne Jones and Hannah Sims were superb all afternoon dominating there opponents with some crunching tackles and excellent passing moves. Bitton doubled the lead with a rare sight as finally we produced a goal from a Becky Hurst corner. Hurst whipped the ball in and some good movement allowed Kirsty Stone to power her header into the bottom corner. Chloe Gallagher was marshalling her defnce well and Stone and Meg Price in particular were looking very strong and in no mood to give up the amazing clean sheet record. Knight and Tugwell were also covering well and also managing to bomb forward at every opportunity. It was Tugwell who created the third for Bitton as she played a ball over the top of a high Cheltneham defence for B Jones to run onto with a clear path to goal. The keeper came rushing out as Jones tried to dink the ball over her but the keeper made a good save only for the ball to rebound back off Jones and head towards the goal where she finished from 6 yards as the covering defenders scrambled back.Bitton continued to play some beautiful football with some great one touch passing and Becky Hurst put over a couple of dangerous crosses that nearly resulted in goals with Sims and Robyn Scrase both having shots blocked. Gallagher had to deal with a couple of corners but Bitton were looking fairly comfortable.
Bitton started the second half as they did the first and effectively wrapped the game up 5 minutes after the break when Sims had a shot from the edge of the area. The keeper looked to have got it but it somehow slipped out of her fingers and trickled over the line to give Sims her fourth goal in as many games. L Jones was continuing to get through a lot of work marking there dangerous skipper Alison Hunt and her work was allowing the rest of the team to continue to attack and it was game over on 60 minutes when a long cross field ball from James found B Jones on her own in the box and she took a touch before smashing the ball home for her 10th of the season. James nearly scored when she ran through but just failed to round the keeper as she looked certain to score. Bitton continued to press and Char Knight tried her luck from 40 yards before Bitton introduced Grace Baker, Holly Fox and Sara Tucker from the bench. Gallagher made a smart save when she rushed out to block an attacker who was through but mainly the last 20 minutes passed by without any real chances at either end. L Jones was finally released from her shackles as there captain left the field due to an injury and she could have got on the score sheet as she had a couple of half chances but failed to hit the target.
A much better performance where the whole squad looked on top of there game and once we got the early goals the result was never in doubt. We now have a couple of weeks break from league action as we concentrate on the cup competitions
Player of the match- Leanne Jones- Great work rate all game and was good on the ball. Stopped there dangerous captain having any impact on the game.
Bitton 3 v 0 Longlevens
Sims,James, B Jones
Hannah wins a header
Bitton moved 10 points clear as they dug out a scrappy victory and continued there unbeaten run. One thing you have to say about this team is they know how to win a game of football. Once again they were far from at there best but they produced a battling display to claim the points thanks to goals from Hannah Sims, Sharifa James and Becky Jones.
Bitton had the luxury of fielding 3 subs for this game with Leanne Jones,Nat Hole and Laura Tugwell all returning to the team.It was clear from the start that Longlevens were up for it and they showed good desire and hunger to shut Bitton down quickly and stifle there passing game.Bitton were having plenty of possesion though in paticular in the wide areas and Becky Hurst and Sharifa James both had a number of crosses dealt with by the impressive Maz Seymour-Hyde in the Levens goal.Bitton nearly took the lead with a stunning piece of football as Hannah Sims and Becky Jones combined to release Hurst down the left and her dangerous low cross left L Jones with a simple tap in but she somehow managed to smash the ball wide.Hurst then had the ball in the net after good play down the left but was denied by the linesmans flag. Simms then released B Jones but her shot was smothered by the advancing keeper.It was mostly Bitton but Levens were looking fast on the break with Kate Hewlett and Sarah Carlisle looking lively. Meg Price and Hole had to be at there best to stop any conuter attacks and both were making some crunching tackles.Laura Tugwell and Char Knight were both getting forward to support well but the slick passing game was all too often coming unstuck as a lack of concentration meant balls were being misplaced when in good positions.Bitton thought they had opened the scoring when a pass from James was collected by B Jones who slid the ball past the keeper only to be denied by a dubious offside flag.L Jones had another chance to open the scoring when she worked an angle in the box but a defender blocked her shot on the line.Hurst delivered a number of dangerous corners and Price was unlucky not to score when she met one with her back. Bitton finally broke the deadlock when James fed B Jones in the area and she swivelled past the defender with a great turn and as the advancing keepr came flying out she dinked the ball over her towards goal with Sims following in to blast the ball home from close range.James then saw her long range effort fly over as the ref blew for half time
The second half was a nervy affair with Levens missing a great early chance to draw level when Kate Hewlett found herself one on one with Chloe Gallagher but she blazed her shot high over the bar when she should have done better. The Levens miss was a bit of a wake up call for Bitton and they applied a lot of pressure looking for that decisive second goal. James missed a couple of good chances before a L Jones cross was handled by the defender giving the referee no choice but to award a spot kick. After a little bit of confusion it was left to James to drill the ball low to the the keepers right to bag her 30th goal of the season.James should really have made it 31 for the season when a good cross from sub Nat Hulbert was met by Bittons top scorer at the far post but she drilled the ball wide. The scoring was completed when B Jones chased a ball into the corner and her cross was deflected into the goal off Kim Hewletts head
Well we never seem to play well against Longlevens but this game in paticulat was pretty poor. The important 3 points were claimed tho but we will have to improve in our next 2 tough games against AEK Boco and Cirencester.
Player of the match-Meg Price- Defence was busier than they have been for a while and Price made some good tackles aswell as keeping good possesion
soms pics in the photo section- http://bitton-ladies.fotopic.net/c1807681.html
Bitton had the luxury of fielding 3 subs for this game with Leanne Jones,Nat Hole and Laura Tugwell all returning to the team.It was clear from the start that Longlevens were up for it and they showed good desire and hunger to shut Bitton down quickly and stifle there passing game.Bitton were having plenty of possesion though in paticular in the wide areas and Becky Hurst and Sharifa James both had a number of crosses dealt with by the impressive Maz Seymour-Hyde in the Levens goal.Bitton nearly took the lead with a stunning piece of football as Hannah Sims and Becky Jones combined to release Hurst down the left and her dangerous low cross left L Jones with a simple tap in but she somehow managed to smash the ball wide.Hurst then had the ball in the net after good play down the left but was denied by the linesmans flag. Simms then released B Jones but her shot was smothered by the advancing keeper.It was mostly Bitton but Levens were looking fast on the break with Kate Hewlett and Sarah Carlisle looking lively. Meg Price and Hole had to be at there best to stop any conuter attacks and both were making some crunching tackles.Laura Tugwell and Char Knight were both getting forward to support well but the slick passing game was all too often coming unstuck as a lack of concentration meant balls were being misplaced when in good positions.Bitton thought they had opened the scoring when a pass from James was collected by B Jones who slid the ball past the keeper only to be denied by a dubious offside flag.L Jones had another chance to open the scoring when she worked an angle in the box but a defender blocked her shot on the line.Hurst delivered a number of dangerous corners and Price was unlucky not to score when she met one with her back. Bitton finally broke the deadlock when James fed B Jones in the area and she swivelled past the defender with a great turn and as the advancing keepr came flying out she dinked the ball over her towards goal with Sims following in to blast the ball home from close range.James then saw her long range effort fly over as the ref blew for half time
The second half was a nervy affair with Levens missing a great early chance to draw level when Kate Hewlett found herself one on one with Chloe Gallagher but she blazed her shot high over the bar when she should have done better. The Levens miss was a bit of a wake up call for Bitton and they applied a lot of pressure looking for that decisive second goal. James missed a couple of good chances before a L Jones cross was handled by the defender giving the referee no choice but to award a spot kick. After a little bit of confusion it was left to James to drill the ball low to the the keepers right to bag her 30th goal of the season.James should really have made it 31 for the season when a good cross from sub Nat Hulbert was met by Bittons top scorer at the far post but she drilled the ball wide. The scoring was completed when B Jones chased a ball into the corner and her cross was deflected into the goal off Kim Hewletts head
Well we never seem to play well against Longlevens but this game in paticulat was pretty poor. The important 3 points were claimed tho but we will have to improve in our next 2 tough games against AEK Boco and Cirencester.
Player of the match-Meg Price- Defence was busier than they have been for a while and Price made some good tackles aswell as keeping good possesion
soms pics in the photo section- http://bitton-ladies.fotopic.net/c1807681.html
Abbeymead 0 v 10 Bitton
Hulbert(3) James(2) B Jones, Baker
Hurst,Sims,Stone
. Firstly a big thanks to Abbeymead for there usual excellent hospitality and for getting the game on in the first place after the shocking weather conditions of late.Definately one of the nicest and friendly teams we play against.
Once again Bitton were hit by a number of people pulling out late and had to play with the bare eleven. Natalie Hulbert came in for her debut and Grace Baker returned from injury. Holly Fox & Hannah Simms were the two other changes from the previous game.
After a couple of below par performances recently Bitton returned after the xmas break in fine form and played some stunning football on an excellent pitch. The score line should have been far greater and the fact it took 35 minutes before the opening goal went in shows how well Abbeymead defended to keep us out. Judith Langworthy in the Abbeymead goal made a number of good saves but it was more to do with Bitton being so wasteful in front of goal. Becky Hurst had 3 good chances in the first 5 minutes including hitting a post and Becky Jones and Sharifa James both missed good chances early on. Bitton were looking an excellent team with some great passing moves with the superb Hannah Sims at the heart of most of there moves. Abbeymeads stand out player of this game was centre back Ursula Ali who time and again covered as the last defender and stopped a Bitton attacked as they went to shoot. After a period of dominance from Bitton it looked like they would go a goal down after the willing run of Emily Cox took her past several challenges but just as it looked like she would score a great last ditch tackle from Kirsty Stone forced the ball out for a corner.
Apart from the glaring misses that continued in the second half we also hit the woodwork on a number of occasions and were denied by some superb saves by Judith and some more good defending, Abbeymead seemed to have put so much into the first half they tired in the second period and Bitton took advantage by finally finding some form in front of goal.
Summary of the goals
32 Min-Finally we find the net as Kirsty Stone comes forward from the back to play a 1-2 and fire low in the corner with her left foot
34 Min-Grace Baker Spots the keeper off her line on shoots from the edge of the box with the defender not quite managing the get back in time
42 Min- Nat Hulbert gets on the end of a Meg Price cross to poke the ball home
55 Min- Becky Jones controls and finishes from close range after the keeper made a save
60 Min- Sharifa James hits a great strike from 25yds that goes over the keeper
70 Min-Nat Hulbert gets on the end of a through ball and beats the keeper to the ball to slide the ball home
73 Min-Becky Hurst has a great run down the left and sees her shot deflected in
78 Min- Sharifa James hits another long range beauty this time low in the corner
84 Min-Hannah Sims gets the goals she deserved for a great performance as she scored from the edge of the box
88 Min-The scoring is completed by a hat trick goal from Nat Hulbert as she bundled in a scramble from a corner
Overall a much better performance from the Bitton ladies and showed what great strength in depth we are getting now with Holly Fox having a good game in an unfamiliar left back role and Nat Hulbert scoring a hat trick on her debut. I even managed to go the whole report without mentioning Sharifas miss when she rounded the keeper and then missed an open goal from 8 yards out-Is that really our top scorer?????
Player of Match-Hannah Sims-A classy midfield performance where she dictated the game and set up so many chances
For an Abbeymead view on the game visit - http://www.clubwebsite.co.uk/abbeymeadroversladies/match_report.pl?action=report&id=1394611
Once again Bitton were hit by a number of people pulling out late and had to play with the bare eleven. Natalie Hulbert came in for her debut and Grace Baker returned from injury. Holly Fox & Hannah Simms were the two other changes from the previous game.
After a couple of below par performances recently Bitton returned after the xmas break in fine form and played some stunning football on an excellent pitch. The score line should have been far greater and the fact it took 35 minutes before the opening goal went in shows how well Abbeymead defended to keep us out. Judith Langworthy in the Abbeymead goal made a number of good saves but it was more to do with Bitton being so wasteful in front of goal. Becky Hurst had 3 good chances in the first 5 minutes including hitting a post and Becky Jones and Sharifa James both missed good chances early on. Bitton were looking an excellent team with some great passing moves with the superb Hannah Sims at the heart of most of there moves. Abbeymeads stand out player of this game was centre back Ursula Ali who time and again covered as the last defender and stopped a Bitton attacked as they went to shoot. After a period of dominance from Bitton it looked like they would go a goal down after the willing run of Emily Cox took her past several challenges but just as it looked like she would score a great last ditch tackle from Kirsty Stone forced the ball out for a corner.
Apart from the glaring misses that continued in the second half we also hit the woodwork on a number of occasions and were denied by some superb saves by Judith and some more good defending, Abbeymead seemed to have put so much into the first half they tired in the second period and Bitton took advantage by finally finding some form in front of goal.
Summary of the goals
32 Min-Finally we find the net as Kirsty Stone comes forward from the back to play a 1-2 and fire low in the corner with her left foot
34 Min-Grace Baker Spots the keeper off her line on shoots from the edge of the box with the defender not quite managing the get back in time
42 Min- Nat Hulbert gets on the end of a Meg Price cross to poke the ball home
55 Min- Becky Jones controls and finishes from close range after the keeper made a save
60 Min- Sharifa James hits a great strike from 25yds that goes over the keeper
70 Min-Nat Hulbert gets on the end of a through ball and beats the keeper to the ball to slide the ball home
73 Min-Becky Hurst has a great run down the left and sees her shot deflected in
78 Min- Sharifa James hits another long range beauty this time low in the corner
84 Min-Hannah Sims gets the goals she deserved for a great performance as she scored from the edge of the box
88 Min-The scoring is completed by a hat trick goal from Nat Hulbert as she bundled in a scramble from a corner
Overall a much better performance from the Bitton ladies and showed what great strength in depth we are getting now with Holly Fox having a good game in an unfamiliar left back role and Nat Hulbert scoring a hat trick on her debut. I even managed to go the whole report without mentioning Sharifas miss when she rounded the keeper and then missed an open goal from 8 yards out-Is that really our top scorer?????
Player of Match-Hannah Sims-A classy midfield performance where she dictated the game and set up so many chances
For an Abbeymead view on the game visit - http://www.clubwebsite.co.uk/abbeymeadroversladies/match_report.pl?action=report&id=1394611
Bitton 3 v 0 Longlevens
James(3)
Bitton overcame this tricky fixture to claim the 3 points and move into the new year with there unbeaten record still intact.Laura Tugwell and Hannah Sims were both missing from the squad so Becky Hurst returned to the starting line up after ilness and Sara Tucker slotted in at left back.
On a good playing surface the game started in a very scrappy fashion with neither side managing to keep possesion for very long. Bitton persisted with the long ball down the middle which was being easilly dealt with by the pace of the Longlevenes sweeper Kim Hewlett. One feature of the first half was Longlevens off side trap which time and again caught the Bitton forwards out. Longlevens started to gain in confidence and for the first time in a league game in quite a while the Bitton defence were put under some heavy pressure. The lively Kate Hewlett was always a danger but the excellent Hole and Price were making some timely challenges. Aswell as helping out at the back Knight was showing a great engine and was flying down the wing and overlapping Scrase at every oppertunity. Sara Lawley had a shot from distance for Longlevens and a series of corners were well dealt with by Tucker.B Jones was very unlucky when she spotted the keeper off her line and hit a terrific shot which looked to be creepng in but the keeper just managed to tip the ball over for a corner. Bitton looked to have created a great chance as a superb pass by L Jones sent Hurst clear on goal but her first touch was far too heavy at Hyde in the Longlevens goal came diving out at her feet.James was inches away from connecting with a B Jones cross before Bitton broke the deadlock on 35 minutes when Stone flicked on a Hurst corner and James swivelled and lashed the ball home.Longlevens must have fealt very unlucky to go in to the break a goal down but for the possesion they had they never really broke Bitton down and created any clear chances.
After a half time ear bashing from there manager Bitton put in a much improved second half performance and were by the far better side creating a lot of chances. It may have been a different story if Gallagher had not made a fantastic diving save from a fierce Carlisle strike in the first 10 minutes of the half. James created some breathing space as she got her and Bittons second when receiving a great pass from Stone and calmly rounded the keeper to slot home.L Jones was coming more into the game and was tormenting the left back at every oppertuninty and put in some great crosses.B Jones had a shot from close range saved by the keeper and sub Fox was unlucky to see the her long range shot blocked on the line with the keeper beaten. James then wrapped the game up as she completed her hat trick with another well taken goal. Longlevens really should have scored when the ball broke to Carlisle only 6 yards out but she hit her shot straight at the keeper. A great cross from L Jones just evaded B Jones as she stretched at the far post and Small was unlucky not to score when she chipped the keeper but the covering defender cleared off the line.
Not at there attacking best but Bitton head into 2010 still undefeated and top of the table. Another clean sheet means they have still only conceeded 1 goal all season
Player of the match-Char Knight-Just pipped Meg Price as she worked hard all game supporting the attack as well as some great defending
few pics from the game in the photo section
On a good playing surface the game started in a very scrappy fashion with neither side managing to keep possesion for very long. Bitton persisted with the long ball down the middle which was being easilly dealt with by the pace of the Longlevenes sweeper Kim Hewlett. One feature of the first half was Longlevens off side trap which time and again caught the Bitton forwards out. Longlevens started to gain in confidence and for the first time in a league game in quite a while the Bitton defence were put under some heavy pressure. The lively Kate Hewlett was always a danger but the excellent Hole and Price were making some timely challenges. Aswell as helping out at the back Knight was showing a great engine and was flying down the wing and overlapping Scrase at every oppertunity. Sara Lawley had a shot from distance for Longlevens and a series of corners were well dealt with by Tucker.B Jones was very unlucky when she spotted the keeper off her line and hit a terrific shot which looked to be creepng in but the keeper just managed to tip the ball over for a corner. Bitton looked to have created a great chance as a superb pass by L Jones sent Hurst clear on goal but her first touch was far too heavy at Hyde in the Longlevens goal came diving out at her feet.James was inches away from connecting with a B Jones cross before Bitton broke the deadlock on 35 minutes when Stone flicked on a Hurst corner and James swivelled and lashed the ball home.Longlevens must have fealt very unlucky to go in to the break a goal down but for the possesion they had they never really broke Bitton down and created any clear chances.
After a half time ear bashing from there manager Bitton put in a much improved second half performance and were by the far better side creating a lot of chances. It may have been a different story if Gallagher had not made a fantastic diving save from a fierce Carlisle strike in the first 10 minutes of the half. James created some breathing space as she got her and Bittons second when receiving a great pass from Stone and calmly rounded the keeper to slot home.L Jones was coming more into the game and was tormenting the left back at every oppertuninty and put in some great crosses.B Jones had a shot from close range saved by the keeper and sub Fox was unlucky to see the her long range shot blocked on the line with the keeper beaten. James then wrapped the game up as she completed her hat trick with another well taken goal. Longlevens really should have scored when the ball broke to Carlisle only 6 yards out but she hit her shot straight at the keeper. A great cross from L Jones just evaded B Jones as she stretched at the far post and Small was unlucky not to score when she chipped the keeper but the covering defender cleared off the line.
Not at there attacking best but Bitton head into 2010 still undefeated and top of the table. Another clean sheet means they have still only conceeded 1 goal all season
Player of the match-Char Knight-Just pipped Meg Price as she worked hard all game supporting the attack as well as some great defending
few pics from the game in the photo section
Abbeymead 0 v 4 Bitton
S James(2) K Stone H Sims
Well the important thing was the 3 points but Bitton just never really got going in this game. Abbeymead must be given huge credit for there great work rate and endeavour on a dificult pitch as there defenders on several occasions put there body on the line to stop Bitton scoring.It was still a one sided game and Bitton did miss several chances to make the score line more impressive.Chloe Gallagher hardly had a touch all game but it is clear for all to see how much Abbeymead have improved and manager Ross Langworty and coach Phil Ellaway have really got them playing for each other.
Despite missing Grace Baker and Nat Hole Bitton had the rare luxury of fielding 2 subs for this game and it was the returning pair of Holly Fox and Becky Hurst who started on the bench. First starts of the season were given to the returning Kirsty Stone and debutant Hannah Sims as Bitton started the agme in a 3-5-2 formation.In driving rain and on a boggy pitch it was Bitton who were first to show as Deb Small had 2 shots from the edge of the area that were hit straight at the Abeeymead keeper.Bitton took the lead on 15 minutes as Sharifa James cut inside her marker and her looping shot deflected over the keeper.5 minutes later it was 2-0 as James shot home from the edge of the area and it looked like the floodgates may open but it was Abbeymead who came on stronger and the very dangerous Becky Gillespie had a great run which ended up with her shot being touchd on to the bar by Bitton keeper Chloe Gallagher. This seemed to give Abbeymead some confidence and they pinned Bitton back in there half for long periods with some strong tackling and organised defending. Bitton had a couple of breakwaways with B Jones, James and Knight all having shots blocked by the keeper.
The first 30 minutes of the second half were mostly Bitton attacks failing due to some great tackles and poor finishing. James, B Jones,Stone,Fox and L Jones all had very good scoring oppertunities but failed to test the keeper.Without really causing the Bitton defence too many problems Abbeymead were always in the game while it was only 2-0 but the game changed on 75 minutes. the referee missed a foul by Holly Fox on Gillespie and the Abbeymead forward let her frustration get the better of her and saw red for her rant at the official. Down to only 10 players now the Abbeymead girls seemed to tire and Bitton got a 3rd when the impressive Kirsty Stone hit a great strike from the edge of the area into the top corner. Bitton got there 4th in the final 5 minutes as Hannah Sims was first to react in the box to stroke home a debut goal.
Bitton were not at there best but it shows the high standards we have set when we are not happy with a 4-0 win. As previously said some credit must go down to Abbeymead who have tremendous team spirit and never give up.Thanks toAbbeymead for the excellent hospitality f and we look forwadr to visiting them again in January
Player of the match-Kirsty Stone-Strong midfield performance and a great goal after 18 months out.
Quote of the week-This ham tastes like Jam
Despite missing Grace Baker and Nat Hole Bitton had the rare luxury of fielding 2 subs for this game and it was the returning pair of Holly Fox and Becky Hurst who started on the bench. First starts of the season were given to the returning Kirsty Stone and debutant Hannah Sims as Bitton started the agme in a 3-5-2 formation.In driving rain and on a boggy pitch it was Bitton who were first to show as Deb Small had 2 shots from the edge of the area that were hit straight at the Abeeymead keeper.Bitton took the lead on 15 minutes as Sharifa James cut inside her marker and her looping shot deflected over the keeper.5 minutes later it was 2-0 as James shot home from the edge of the area and it looked like the floodgates may open but it was Abbeymead who came on stronger and the very dangerous Becky Gillespie had a great run which ended up with her shot being touchd on to the bar by Bitton keeper Chloe Gallagher. This seemed to give Abbeymead some confidence and they pinned Bitton back in there half for long periods with some strong tackling and organised defending. Bitton had a couple of breakwaways with B Jones, James and Knight all having shots blocked by the keeper.
The first 30 minutes of the second half were mostly Bitton attacks failing due to some great tackles and poor finishing. James, B Jones,Stone,Fox and L Jones all had very good scoring oppertunities but failed to test the keeper.Without really causing the Bitton defence too many problems Abbeymead were always in the game while it was only 2-0 but the game changed on 75 minutes. the referee missed a foul by Holly Fox on Gillespie and the Abbeymead forward let her frustration get the better of her and saw red for her rant at the official. Down to only 10 players now the Abbeymead girls seemed to tire and Bitton got a 3rd when the impressive Kirsty Stone hit a great strike from the edge of the area into the top corner. Bitton got there 4th in the final 5 minutes as Hannah Sims was first to react in the box to stroke home a debut goal.
Bitton were not at there best but it shows the high standards we have set when we are not happy with a 4-0 win. As previously said some credit must go down to Abbeymead who have tremendous team spirit and never give up.Thanks toAbbeymead for the excellent hospitality f and we look forwadr to visiting them again in January
Player of the match-Kirsty Stone-Strong midfield performance and a great goal after 18 months out.
Quote of the week-This ham tastes like Jam
Cheltenham Spa 0 v 1 Bitton
B Jones
Bitton overcame the fact they had to play this game with only 7 fit players and 4 walking wounded to advance to the Quarter finals of the County cup. As seems to be a regular occurrence they were hit by a number of withdrawls on the morning of the game with a range of obscure excuses and some people just not showing up. It is strange when the team has been so successful of late you would think everyone would be dying to be involved. Let’s concentrate on the 11 players that showed some commitment to the club and put in a hardworking performance to scrape through against a good Cheltenham Spa team. Bitton were under lots of pressure during this game but dug deep and hold on and Becky Jones 35th minute strike was enough to split the teams.
After a morning spent worrying if the game would be played and frantically trying to get a side to put on the pitch Bitton arrived in Cheltenham to find a strong wind but none of the rain they had left behind in Bristol. The two teams drew 0-0 on the opening day of the season so another close game was expected and that is exactly how it turned out. Chloe Gallagher played in goal despite damaging her fingers only 2 weeks ago and the regular defensive trio of Knight,Price and Hole were joined at left back by Shan Baldwin who was making her first start of the season. Scrase and Small occupied the wide areas with Becky & Leanne Jones playing in central midfield. Injured top scorer Sharifa James was joined up front by Grace Baker who was forced to play due to lack of number despite barely being able to walk and she performed brilliantly.The wind was blowing straight down the pitch and it was Cheltenham Spa who would have the wind at the back in the first half. On a fairly decent pitch considering the amount of rain we have had it was Bitton who were first to show on 5 mins when B Jones released Scrase down the right and she played a great ball over to James who saw her left footed volley fly over. Cheltenham then started to use the wind well and with Bitton strugling to clear there lines a period of strong pressure came with several shots being struck towards the Bittton goal. Cheltneham Spas top scorer Lara Mahon was looking lively and she broke clear on 15 minutes but Gallagher was quick off her line to block the shot and Mahon ballooned the rebound over the bar. A couple of long range efforts were easily dealt with by Gallagher before Mahon latched on to a ball over the top and superbly lofted the ball over Gallagher into the net only to be denied by the assistant referees flag. Bitton were trying to work on the counter attack and B Jones had a long range effort saved by the Cheltenham keeper after exchanging passes with James. Bitton top scorer James then looked certain to score has she turned her marker but her left foot shot flew inches over the bar. A number of scrambles in the Bitton area then followed with one seeing a combination of Gallagher and Price deflect the ball onto the post. The only goal of the game 10 minutes before the break when after some neat passing down the right Knight put in an excellent delivery that found B Jones at the far post, the ball took an awkward bounce and struck her in the face and she looked to have lost the opportunity but as the covering defender came across she shifted the ball inside her and rifled the ball home. Cheltenam were still on top and there captain Alison Hunt tested Gallagher with a couple of long range efforts before Mahon was unlucky with a header from a free kick which the Bitton keeper just managed to gather under the crossbar.
The strong wind typically died down a bit second half bit there was still a breeze at Bittons back but with the introduction of some Cheltenham fresh legs Bitton began to look tired and with pitch cutting up there were some heavy legs out there. Cheltenham dominated possession in the second half as they pressed for an equaliser but it was Bitton who had the best chances. The industrious Becky Jones had a chance to wrap the game up when she followed up a James striker but somehow she could not manage to force the ball home from 2 yards. Knight had an excellent second half making several tackles and Gallagher was marshalling her defence well. Price and Hole provided there normal no nonsense defending with some crucial tackles and Hole in particular saved an almost certain goal with a superbly timed last ditch tackle at the death. James had a couple of runs that ended in shots but there keeper did well to stop them.L Jones did a great job shackling there captain Hunt and sacrificed parts of her own attacking game to track the runs of one of Cheltenhams dangers.
All 11 players that pulled on a shirt today were a credit to the club and showed a real togetherness and team spirit that was evident to see. Despite carrying injuries everyone was committed to the cause and earned the little bit of luck that saw them advance to the Quarter Finals of the GFA cup and kept there winning run going.
Player of the match- Chloe Gallagher/Becky Jones-Gallagher for an accomplished performance in goal and Jones for a hard working midfield performance capped with the only goal.
Quote of the week-Deb Small - *& %$ %&**&*% £%$*& (sorry too rude to print, you had to be there)
After a morning spent worrying if the game would be played and frantically trying to get a side to put on the pitch Bitton arrived in Cheltenham to find a strong wind but none of the rain they had left behind in Bristol. The two teams drew 0-0 on the opening day of the season so another close game was expected and that is exactly how it turned out. Chloe Gallagher played in goal despite damaging her fingers only 2 weeks ago and the regular defensive trio of Knight,Price and Hole were joined at left back by Shan Baldwin who was making her first start of the season. Scrase and Small occupied the wide areas with Becky & Leanne Jones playing in central midfield. Injured top scorer Sharifa James was joined up front by Grace Baker who was forced to play due to lack of number despite barely being able to walk and she performed brilliantly.The wind was blowing straight down the pitch and it was Cheltenham Spa who would have the wind at the back in the first half. On a fairly decent pitch considering the amount of rain we have had it was Bitton who were first to show on 5 mins when B Jones released Scrase down the right and she played a great ball over to James who saw her left footed volley fly over. Cheltenham then started to use the wind well and with Bitton strugling to clear there lines a period of strong pressure came with several shots being struck towards the Bittton goal. Cheltneham Spas top scorer Lara Mahon was looking lively and she broke clear on 15 minutes but Gallagher was quick off her line to block the shot and Mahon ballooned the rebound over the bar. A couple of long range efforts were easily dealt with by Gallagher before Mahon latched on to a ball over the top and superbly lofted the ball over Gallagher into the net only to be denied by the assistant referees flag. Bitton were trying to work on the counter attack and B Jones had a long range effort saved by the Cheltenham keeper after exchanging passes with James. Bitton top scorer James then looked certain to score has she turned her marker but her left foot shot flew inches over the bar. A number of scrambles in the Bitton area then followed with one seeing a combination of Gallagher and Price deflect the ball onto the post. The only goal of the game 10 minutes before the break when after some neat passing down the right Knight put in an excellent delivery that found B Jones at the far post, the ball took an awkward bounce and struck her in the face and she looked to have lost the opportunity but as the covering defender came across she shifted the ball inside her and rifled the ball home. Cheltenam were still on top and there captain Alison Hunt tested Gallagher with a couple of long range efforts before Mahon was unlucky with a header from a free kick which the Bitton keeper just managed to gather under the crossbar.
The strong wind typically died down a bit second half bit there was still a breeze at Bittons back but with the introduction of some Cheltenham fresh legs Bitton began to look tired and with pitch cutting up there were some heavy legs out there. Cheltenham dominated possession in the second half as they pressed for an equaliser but it was Bitton who had the best chances. The industrious Becky Jones had a chance to wrap the game up when she followed up a James striker but somehow she could not manage to force the ball home from 2 yards. Knight had an excellent second half making several tackles and Gallagher was marshalling her defence well. Price and Hole provided there normal no nonsense defending with some crucial tackles and Hole in particular saved an almost certain goal with a superbly timed last ditch tackle at the death. James had a couple of runs that ended in shots but there keeper did well to stop them.L Jones did a great job shackling there captain Hunt and sacrificed parts of her own attacking game to track the runs of one of Cheltenhams dangers.
All 11 players that pulled on a shirt today were a credit to the club and showed a real togetherness and team spirit that was evident to see. Despite carrying injuries everyone was committed to the cause and earned the little bit of luck that saw them advance to the Quarter Finals of the GFA cup and kept there winning run going.
Player of the match- Chloe Gallagher/Becky Jones-Gallagher for an accomplished performance in goal and Jones for a hard working midfield performance capped with the only goal.
Quote of the week-Deb Small - *& %$ %&**&*% £%$*& (sorry too rude to print, you had to be there)
Bitton 14 v 0 Abbeymead
James(7) Hurst(2) Jones(2)
Tugwell,Hole,Parfitt
Action from the Abbeymead game
Bitton hosted Abbeymead Rovers who due to holidays and ilness could only manage to field 9 players.Those 9 players who pulled on the yellow shirt were a credit to there club as they played with a smile on there face and never stopped trying for the entire 90 minutes despite a constant wave of Bitton attacks. The Abbeymead no 3 Zee Aruna in paticular had a great game while there keeper Judith Langworthy also made some great stops.
It was a sign of things to come as after only 15 seconds of the game gone the ball was fed to James who smashed in her and Bittons opening goal. B Jones made it two 5 minutes later as she drilled home after a great run by Hurst down the left wing. Hurst once again demonstared some great wing play as she tormented her marker all afternoon time and again skipping past her and delivering some great crosses. A feature of the game was Bittosn excellent passing game and the times they got the ball down and passed it around getting the ball into the front twos feet and running off them ineveitably led to goal scoring chances. the times when they tried to run with the ball the attacks seemed to be snuffed out by the over worked Abbeymead defenders. After a couple of minutes spent trying to adapt to a new formation Tugwell got her first of the season after a strong run down the left. Bitton then missed a couple of smiple chances before James scored again.With the obvious therat of the front two it was nice to see 6 different scorers today with Bitton looking capaple of getting goals from all over the field as every player took it in turns to bomb forward and get into the box. Hurst got her first of the afternoon as she played a neat one two with B Jones and found the bottom corner. James then hit a quick fire double before the break to make the score 7-0 at half time
James score early in the second half to make it 8-0 but the came a long period where Abbeymead played really well and frustrated Bitton even managing to get up the other end and get the ball in the net only to be denied by the offside flag. Bitton continued to miss a host of chances which could have seen the scoreline reach a crazy amount. Finally we then scored a goal from a corner when A delivery from Hurst was met by an overhead bicycle kick from Hole which thundered into the net like a rocket.Sub Parfitt was next to score after another cross from Hurst. James then score the goal of the game as she wriggled past her marker and hit an unstoppable strike past the keeper. Hurst then scored a fortunate goal as her attempted cross dropped in at the far post.James grabbed another 2 before B jones rounded of the scoring.
In fairness the scoreline could have been far more as we missed some very easy chances but also scored some great goals.Todays game proved we are at our best when we play the ball to feet. Credit must be given to Abbeymead though who played the game in the right spirit and despite the scoreline seemed to enjoy there game
Player of the match-Sharifa James-Despite not playing that well and missing a host of chances she still hit 7 goals to take her tally for the season to 22
(Pictures in the photo section)
For the abbeymead view on the game- http://www.clubwebsite.co.uk/abbeymeadroversladies/match_report.pl?action=report&id=1071672
It was a sign of things to come as after only 15 seconds of the game gone the ball was fed to James who smashed in her and Bittons opening goal. B Jones made it two 5 minutes later as she drilled home after a great run by Hurst down the left wing. Hurst once again demonstared some great wing play as she tormented her marker all afternoon time and again skipping past her and delivering some great crosses. A feature of the game was Bittosn excellent passing game and the times they got the ball down and passed it around getting the ball into the front twos feet and running off them ineveitably led to goal scoring chances. the times when they tried to run with the ball the attacks seemed to be snuffed out by the over worked Abbeymead defenders. After a couple of minutes spent trying to adapt to a new formation Tugwell got her first of the season after a strong run down the left. Bitton then missed a couple of smiple chances before James scored again.With the obvious therat of the front two it was nice to see 6 different scorers today with Bitton looking capaple of getting goals from all over the field as every player took it in turns to bomb forward and get into the box. Hurst got her first of the afternoon as she played a neat one two with B Jones and found the bottom corner. James then hit a quick fire double before the break to make the score 7-0 at half time
James score early in the second half to make it 8-0 but the came a long period where Abbeymead played really well and frustrated Bitton even managing to get up the other end and get the ball in the net only to be denied by the offside flag. Bitton continued to miss a host of chances which could have seen the scoreline reach a crazy amount. Finally we then scored a goal from a corner when A delivery from Hurst was met by an overhead bicycle kick from Hole which thundered into the net like a rocket.Sub Parfitt was next to score after another cross from Hurst. James then score the goal of the game as she wriggled past her marker and hit an unstoppable strike past the keeper. Hurst then scored a fortunate goal as her attempted cross dropped in at the far post.James grabbed another 2 before B jones rounded of the scoring.
In fairness the scoreline could have been far more as we missed some very easy chances but also scored some great goals.Todays game proved we are at our best when we play the ball to feet. Credit must be given to Abbeymead though who played the game in the right spirit and despite the scoreline seemed to enjoy there game
Player of the match-Sharifa James-Despite not playing that well and missing a host of chances she still hit 7 goals to take her tally for the season to 22
(Pictures in the photo section)
For the abbeymead view on the game- http://www.clubwebsite.co.uk/abbeymeadroversladies/match_report.pl?action=report&id=1071672
Longlevens 0 v 8 Bitton
James(3) Hurst(2)
B Jones, L Jones, O.G
The teams shake hands
Bitton continued there early season from with another resounding victory against there bogey team Longlevens. Becky Hurst came back into the side on the left of midfield and Chloe Gallagher moved back into goal.
The game started in a scrappy way with Longlvens playing with just the one upfront and getting a lot of bodies behind the ball trying to frustrate the Bitton passing game and resorting to the long ball game for there one fast lone striker. The tactic did not work all afternoon though and Gallagher in the Bitton goal did not have a save of note to make all game.
Bitton had already missed a few half chances when Becky Hurst gave them the lead direct from a free kick as she drilled the ball high over the keeper. The Bitton girls seemed to relax after this and started to play some decent stuff. Hurst got the better of her marker again and cut the ball back to James but her first time effort was straight at the keeper. B Jones was next to test the keeper as she hit a first time volley which the keeper parried for a corner. Price got her head on the end of a Hurst corner but could not quite direct it goalwards as Bitton really pressed . The 2nd came after some neat one touch football saw Scrase play a great through ball that had James racing clear and with the leagues leading scorer hungry for more goals there was only going to be one outcome as she stroked the ball past the keeper. The back four were once again in commanding mood and the meanest defence in the league were keen to keep another clean sheet as they covered each other and once again made some crunching tackles. One long ball over the top for a moment looked like it may cause some problems but the excellent Knight outpaced the lively forward to snuff out the danger. Price once again went close from a couple of corners and a James snap shot was parried by the keeper. Bitton got the 3rd when a throw in on the right was brilliantly flicked on by L Jones and Hurst hit a first time shot that deflected past the keeper.
3-0 at half time and the game won Bitton were looking to increase there goal difference and it was James who once again got the goal when she outpaced her marker down the right and looked up and whipped the ball into the danger area with the ball flying past the keeper(Shot or cross??) she will tell you shot of course. The keeper then made a great flying save as James looked certain to score after being played in by B Jones. As if they were not struggling enough Longlvens decide to help Bitton score another as the keeper miskicked the ball and it looped into the air and the defender headed the ball right back over her head for a goal any striker would have been proud of. Grace Baker made way for Nat Parfitt and almost immediately Parfitt beat her marker and squared the ball for B Jones to tap into an empty net for 6-0.Another great performance from L Jones was capped off with a goal after a defence splitting pass from B Jones saw her race clear and round the keeper before tapping into an empty net. Bitton rounded of the scoring when a great Becky Hurst cross was nodded in at the far post by James for her hat trick
Bitton were far from at there best but another convincing win that will boost there Goal difference
Player of the match –Becky Hurst-2 goals an assist and tormented her marker all afternoon
(pictures in the photo section)
The game started in a scrappy way with Longlvens playing with just the one upfront and getting a lot of bodies behind the ball trying to frustrate the Bitton passing game and resorting to the long ball game for there one fast lone striker. The tactic did not work all afternoon though and Gallagher in the Bitton goal did not have a save of note to make all game.
Bitton had already missed a few half chances when Becky Hurst gave them the lead direct from a free kick as she drilled the ball high over the keeper. The Bitton girls seemed to relax after this and started to play some decent stuff. Hurst got the better of her marker again and cut the ball back to James but her first time effort was straight at the keeper. B Jones was next to test the keeper as she hit a first time volley which the keeper parried for a corner. Price got her head on the end of a Hurst corner but could not quite direct it goalwards as Bitton really pressed . The 2nd came after some neat one touch football saw Scrase play a great through ball that had James racing clear and with the leagues leading scorer hungry for more goals there was only going to be one outcome as she stroked the ball past the keeper. The back four were once again in commanding mood and the meanest defence in the league were keen to keep another clean sheet as they covered each other and once again made some crunching tackles. One long ball over the top for a moment looked like it may cause some problems but the excellent Knight outpaced the lively forward to snuff out the danger. Price once again went close from a couple of corners and a James snap shot was parried by the keeper. Bitton got the 3rd when a throw in on the right was brilliantly flicked on by L Jones and Hurst hit a first time shot that deflected past the keeper.
3-0 at half time and the game won Bitton were looking to increase there goal difference and it was James who once again got the goal when she outpaced her marker down the right and looked up and whipped the ball into the danger area with the ball flying past the keeper(Shot or cross??) she will tell you shot of course. The keeper then made a great flying save as James looked certain to score after being played in by B Jones. As if they were not struggling enough Longlvens decide to help Bitton score another as the keeper miskicked the ball and it looped into the air and the defender headed the ball right back over her head for a goal any striker would have been proud of. Grace Baker made way for Nat Parfitt and almost immediately Parfitt beat her marker and squared the ball for B Jones to tap into an empty net for 6-0.Another great performance from L Jones was capped off with a goal after a defence splitting pass from B Jones saw her race clear and round the keeper before tapping into an empty net. Bitton rounded of the scoring when a great Becky Hurst cross was nodded in at the far post by James for her hat trick
Bitton were far from at there best but another convincing win that will boost there Goal difference
Player of the match –Becky Hurst-2 goals an assist and tormented her marker all afternoon
(pictures in the photo section)
Bitton 9 v 0 Mitcheldean
James(6),B Jones
L Jones,Baker
After only producing 45 minutes of decent football last week Bitton kept at it for the full 90 this week and ripped Mitcheldean to pieces with some free flowing attacking football. Kim Jones came in goal for her debut which meant a switch to Midfield for Chloe Gallagher. Due to lack of numbers Grace Baker, Robyn Scrase and Laura Tugwell all played despite injuries and illness.
It did not take long for Bitton to settle any pre match nerves as within the first minute the ball found Becky Jones on the edge of the area and she drilled a left foot volley into the bottom corner. The move of Leanne Jones out wide was proving to be productive as she was giving the Mitcheldean full back a torrid time skipping past her at every opportunity. Mitcheldean were playing a dangerous high line at the back and this was to be a feature of the afternoon as time and again the Offside flag was raised by there linesman-some of these seemed rather dubious but the girls kept going. Sharifa James got her first of the afternoon after a well weighted through ball from Grace Bakers set her free and she slotted past the keeper. Another through ball saw James race clear and just as she was about to pull the trigger the defender slid in from behind and the referee awarded a penalty. B Jones stepped up for the spot kick but she got underneath the ball too much and sent her kick sailing over the bar. It was 3 just after as a long clearance from Kim Jones in goal saw James in again and this time she beautifully rounded the advancing keeper and tapped home into an empty net. Mitcheldean did not learn however and James completed her hat trick with an almost identical goal from another K Jones clearance. The first half scoring was completed by James again as a well worked team move saw her faced once again with the keeper to beat and more clinical finishing saw the same result as the ball sailed past the outstretched arm of the keeper.5-0 again at half time but once again a host of missed chances with B Jones,L Jones and James being the main culprits
The second half produced more of the same with James adding 2 more 1 after a great through ball from Scrase and 1 from a pin point B Jones cross. Baker finshed off a well worked team goal when she finished from the edge of the area & L Jones got her first of the season after and excellent solo run where she ghosted past several defenders and drilled home. The score line could have been even more convincing as Price, L Jones, James and B Jones all had chances that were not converted.
Another fine performance and some great goals. A special mention to defence who once again were outstanding and kept concentrating for the whole game to keep another clean sheet
Player of the Match-Sharifa James-6 goals to add to the 5 last week
Kim Jones- A comfortable debut with only a few things to do. Did claim 2 assists with some monster kicks
Char Knight-Another consistent display (does she ever have a bad game) tackled well and got forward well to support
Nat Hole- once again strong in the tackle and composed with the ball at her feet. Played through injury for the last half an hour
Meg Price-Some great covering runs to snuff out any danger and looked good when bringing the ball out from defence. Almost got on the score sheet when pushing into midfield in the second half.
Laura Tugwell- Climbed out of her sick bed to put in her best performance of the season. Looked fast and strong and played some great channel balls.
Leanne Jones-Seemed to relish to space she had out wide and was a constant threat all day with some great solo runs. Could have had a few more than her 1 goal
Grace Baker-Playing on through injury and was superb once again with her workrate and non stop tackling. Supplied some great through balls and got a goal
Chloe Gallagher-Won everything in the air and was a real powerhouse in the midfield. Kept going right to the final whistle
Robyn Scrase-Returned from her back injury in great from. Was dominant in the air and set up 2 goals with some great wing play.
Becky Jones-Scored a cracking goal and possibly should have had a few more but tireless running all afternoon. Linked up play with some intelligent passing.
Sharifa James-Proving a real handful for defenders. Showed good skill and pace and grabbed 6 goals in another excellent performance
It did not take long for Bitton to settle any pre match nerves as within the first minute the ball found Becky Jones on the edge of the area and she drilled a left foot volley into the bottom corner. The move of Leanne Jones out wide was proving to be productive as she was giving the Mitcheldean full back a torrid time skipping past her at every opportunity. Mitcheldean were playing a dangerous high line at the back and this was to be a feature of the afternoon as time and again the Offside flag was raised by there linesman-some of these seemed rather dubious but the girls kept going. Sharifa James got her first of the afternoon after a well weighted through ball from Grace Bakers set her free and she slotted past the keeper. Another through ball saw James race clear and just as she was about to pull the trigger the defender slid in from behind and the referee awarded a penalty. B Jones stepped up for the spot kick but she got underneath the ball too much and sent her kick sailing over the bar. It was 3 just after as a long clearance from Kim Jones in goal saw James in again and this time she beautifully rounded the advancing keeper and tapped home into an empty net. Mitcheldean did not learn however and James completed her hat trick with an almost identical goal from another K Jones clearance. The first half scoring was completed by James again as a well worked team move saw her faced once again with the keeper to beat and more clinical finishing saw the same result as the ball sailed past the outstretched arm of the keeper.5-0 again at half time but once again a host of missed chances with B Jones,L Jones and James being the main culprits
The second half produced more of the same with James adding 2 more 1 after a great through ball from Scrase and 1 from a pin point B Jones cross. Baker finshed off a well worked team goal when she finished from the edge of the area & L Jones got her first of the season after and excellent solo run where she ghosted past several defenders and drilled home. The score line could have been even more convincing as Price, L Jones, James and B Jones all had chances that were not converted.
Another fine performance and some great goals. A special mention to defence who once again were outstanding and kept concentrating for the whole game to keep another clean sheet
Player of the Match-Sharifa James-6 goals to add to the 5 last week
Kim Jones- A comfortable debut with only a few things to do. Did claim 2 assists with some monster kicks
Char Knight-Another consistent display (does she ever have a bad game) tackled well and got forward well to support
Nat Hole- once again strong in the tackle and composed with the ball at her feet. Played through injury for the last half an hour
Meg Price-Some great covering runs to snuff out any danger and looked good when bringing the ball out from defence. Almost got on the score sheet when pushing into midfield in the second half.
Laura Tugwell- Climbed out of her sick bed to put in her best performance of the season. Looked fast and strong and played some great channel balls.
Leanne Jones-Seemed to relish to space she had out wide and was a constant threat all day with some great solo runs. Could have had a few more than her 1 goal
Grace Baker-Playing on through injury and was superb once again with her workrate and non stop tackling. Supplied some great through balls and got a goal
Chloe Gallagher-Won everything in the air and was a real powerhouse in the midfield. Kept going right to the final whistle
Robyn Scrase-Returned from her back injury in great from. Was dominant in the air and set up 2 goals with some great wing play.
Becky Jones-Scored a cracking goal and possibly should have had a few more but tireless running all afternoon. Linked up play with some intelligent passing.
Sharifa James-Proving a real handful for defenders. Showed good skill and pace and grabbed 6 goals in another excellent performance
Tetbury Town 1 v 7 Bitton
James (5) Hurst (2)
Despite missing a host of chances Bitton ran out comfortable winners as they hit 7 past Tetbury. With Scrase,Tugwell,Small and Hodgson all misiing Bitton went into the game with only 11 players but the only change to the starting line up was Tucker replacing Tugwell at left back.Bitton dominated for the whole game and really should of had at least 10 goals to show for there performance. They finished the game with only 9 players as Hurst and Baker were both forced off through injury.
Bitton signalled there intentions in the first minute with a long ball from Hole which saw James race clear only to pull her effort wide of the goal.Further chances came in a frantic opening 10 minute spell with James,Hurst and B Jones all testing the keeper.A ball from L Jones down the left channel had Hurst sprinting clear of the defence and this time she managed to slide the ball past the keeper to open the scoring. James missed 2 identical chances before she finally got her first goal as she once again raced clear and curled the ball into the far corner.Bitton were totally dominating the game and it was a case of keeping concentration for the back four and keeper.HUrst grabbed her second after a slide rule pass from B Jones put her through and she smashed the ball high into the net from a tight angle. James grabbed her second from a Hurst corner before completing her quick fire hat trick as she skipped away from a few challenges and slid past the stranded keeper.
With the score 5-0 at half time Bitton were expecting more goals in the second period. After Hurst fell to a heavy challenge and Baker pulled her hamstring which resulted in them both being removed from the field the game became scrappy and there passing game seemed to suffer.James then hit a rasping drive from the edge of the area that bounced back off the post with no Bitton player following it up.on 65 minutes Bitton were caught out at the back as Tetburys only meaningfull attack of the game saw a mix up between Hole and the excellent Knight allowing the Tetbury striker to loft the ball over Gallagher for a consolation.Even with 9 players Bitton were still dominating and James had a shot saved from a tight angle before she got her fourth when L Jones chased a Gallagher kick and squared it for James to lash home.Price was unlucky to see her header go straight at the keeper following a corner and B Jones tested the keepers handling with a fierce free kick.The final goal of the game came after James raced clear yet again and slotted passed the keeper.
The scoreline flatterd Tetbury and once again we missed plenty of good chances but 7 goals,3 points and top of the table is not to be sniffed at and we host Mitcheldean next week full of confidence.
Player of the match-Sharifa James-5 goals and could of had a few more
Gallagher, Tucker,Hole,Price,Knight,Parfitt,L Jones,Baker,Hurst,B Jones,James
Bitton signalled there intentions in the first minute with a long ball from Hole which saw James race clear only to pull her effort wide of the goal.Further chances came in a frantic opening 10 minute spell with James,Hurst and B Jones all testing the keeper.A ball from L Jones down the left channel had Hurst sprinting clear of the defence and this time she managed to slide the ball past the keeper to open the scoring. James missed 2 identical chances before she finally got her first goal as she once again raced clear and curled the ball into the far corner.Bitton were totally dominating the game and it was a case of keeping concentration for the back four and keeper.HUrst grabbed her second after a slide rule pass from B Jones put her through and she smashed the ball high into the net from a tight angle. James grabbed her second from a Hurst corner before completing her quick fire hat trick as she skipped away from a few challenges and slid past the stranded keeper.
With the score 5-0 at half time Bitton were expecting more goals in the second period. After Hurst fell to a heavy challenge and Baker pulled her hamstring which resulted in them both being removed from the field the game became scrappy and there passing game seemed to suffer.James then hit a rasping drive from the edge of the area that bounced back off the post with no Bitton player following it up.on 65 minutes Bitton were caught out at the back as Tetburys only meaningfull attack of the game saw a mix up between Hole and the excellent Knight allowing the Tetbury striker to loft the ball over Gallagher for a consolation.Even with 9 players Bitton were still dominating and James had a shot saved from a tight angle before she got her fourth when L Jones chased a Gallagher kick and squared it for James to lash home.Price was unlucky to see her header go straight at the keeper following a corner and B Jones tested the keepers handling with a fierce free kick.The final goal of the game came after James raced clear yet again and slotted passed the keeper.
The scoreline flatterd Tetbury and once again we missed plenty of good chances but 7 goals,3 points and top of the table is not to be sniffed at and we host Mitcheldean next week full of confidence.
Player of the match-Sharifa James-5 goals and could of had a few more
Gallagher, Tucker,Hole,Price,Knight,Parfitt,L Jones,Baker,Hurst,B Jones,James
Bitton 2 v 0 AEK Boco
B Jones
James
Bitton produced two very different halves of football today. The first was full of controlled passing and excellent movement that saw them create many chances on goal. The second half was a gritty battling display with there backs to the wall and under heavy pressure against a good Boco side. Thankfully the defence held out and it was not till the last 5 minutes the game was made safe.
This was the fourth time these two sides have met and with the previous three meetings all being draws after 90 minutes another close game was expected. It was Boco who started brighter being fist to all the drop downs and pressing high up the pitch. They had a lot of possession in the first ten minutes without really creating any chances. A few crosses were easily dealt with by Gallagher in the home goal and Price & Hole were snuffing out any danger that came there way. Bitton were forced to make a change in the 15th minute as Nat Parfitt came on to replace the injured Robyn Scase. This change seemed to give Bitton a Boost and they started to really dominate possession and test the Boco defence. James was first to try her luck when after skipping past the full back she saw her well struck shot across the keeper parried away with B Jones looking to put away the rebound. Hurst made several good breaks down the left as Bitton began to cut through the Boco defence with ease. James skipped past the left back and delivered a pin point cross to the far post but the ball was just to high for B Jones to nod in. Another good move down the left saw B Jones hit a volley from the edge of the area which was well struck but straight down the keepers throat. L Jones & Baker were dominating the midfield and Parfitt made some excellent runs down the right showing good skill and awareness. A slight mix up between Price and Tugwell saw the ball given straight to the Boco forward but she was shut down by the excellent Hole and Knight before she had chance to pull the trigger. The opening goal which Bitton deserved came in the 25th Minute when after great work again by James down the right she slid the ball across the box to the unmarked B Jones who despite having time decided to hit it first time and she saw her shot direct into the top corner for a well deserved lead. At this point to there credit Boco made a tactical switch that seemed to tighten things up and gave the Bitton attack less space. Bitton did create a few other chances before the break with James shooting over and Hole just failing to get on the end of a corner.
The second half saw Boco come out fighting and after having been lucky to go in only one down they made most of the running in the second half and applied plenty of pressure. Despite a lot of the ball they failed to really get in behind the Bitton defence and were resorting to plenty of long range efforts that Gallagher dealt with comfortably. They had a couple of Penalty appeals turned down one for a shirt pull from Hole that looked inside the box but the referee adjudged it to have taken place on the edge of the box (Evens things up for the penalty we should have had at Cheltenham) Bittons attacks were far less frequent in the second half and at times it was a struggle to get out of the half. The defence remained calm under all the pressure though and just as the game looked to be heading to a conclusion with no more goals Bitton struck with a classic counter attack. As Boco were pressing even harder for an equaliser they commited bodies forward. The ball broke and a combination of B Jones and Baker saw James racing clear on the inside left position. The defender came across the shut her down and she shifted the ball onto her right through the defenders legs and as the advancing keeper flew out towards her she calmy slotted the ball past her to win the game for Bitton. Cue relief all round for Bitton and a good celebration. This second goal killed all Bocos chance of getting something from the game and the final whistle was welcomed by the Bitton players as some shattered players walked off the field.
An excellent all round team performance which showed you have to sometimes do the ugly things in football to get a result. Hard work, Fitness, determination and team work all need to be part of our game as well as the speed, skill and passing.
Player of the match-Meg Price/Nat Hole- Solid all afternoon and another clean sheet
Gallagher,Knight,Price,Hole,Tugwell,Hurst,L Jones,Baker, Scrace,B Jones,James,Parfitt, Hodgson
(Pictures in the photo section)
This was the fourth time these two sides have met and with the previous three meetings all being draws after 90 minutes another close game was expected. It was Boco who started brighter being fist to all the drop downs and pressing high up the pitch. They had a lot of possession in the first ten minutes without really creating any chances. A few crosses were easily dealt with by Gallagher in the home goal and Price & Hole were snuffing out any danger that came there way. Bitton were forced to make a change in the 15th minute as Nat Parfitt came on to replace the injured Robyn Scase. This change seemed to give Bitton a Boost and they started to really dominate possession and test the Boco defence. James was first to try her luck when after skipping past the full back she saw her well struck shot across the keeper parried away with B Jones looking to put away the rebound. Hurst made several good breaks down the left as Bitton began to cut through the Boco defence with ease. James skipped past the left back and delivered a pin point cross to the far post but the ball was just to high for B Jones to nod in. Another good move down the left saw B Jones hit a volley from the edge of the area which was well struck but straight down the keepers throat. L Jones & Baker were dominating the midfield and Parfitt made some excellent runs down the right showing good skill and awareness. A slight mix up between Price and Tugwell saw the ball given straight to the Boco forward but she was shut down by the excellent Hole and Knight before she had chance to pull the trigger. The opening goal which Bitton deserved came in the 25th Minute when after great work again by James down the right she slid the ball across the box to the unmarked B Jones who despite having time decided to hit it first time and she saw her shot direct into the top corner for a well deserved lead. At this point to there credit Boco made a tactical switch that seemed to tighten things up and gave the Bitton attack less space. Bitton did create a few other chances before the break with James shooting over and Hole just failing to get on the end of a corner.
The second half saw Boco come out fighting and after having been lucky to go in only one down they made most of the running in the second half and applied plenty of pressure. Despite a lot of the ball they failed to really get in behind the Bitton defence and were resorting to plenty of long range efforts that Gallagher dealt with comfortably. They had a couple of Penalty appeals turned down one for a shirt pull from Hole that looked inside the box but the referee adjudged it to have taken place on the edge of the box (Evens things up for the penalty we should have had at Cheltenham) Bittons attacks were far less frequent in the second half and at times it was a struggle to get out of the half. The defence remained calm under all the pressure though and just as the game looked to be heading to a conclusion with no more goals Bitton struck with a classic counter attack. As Boco were pressing even harder for an equaliser they commited bodies forward. The ball broke and a combination of B Jones and Baker saw James racing clear on the inside left position. The defender came across the shut her down and she shifted the ball onto her right through the defenders legs and as the advancing keeper flew out towards her she calmy slotted the ball past her to win the game for Bitton. Cue relief all round for Bitton and a good celebration. This second goal killed all Bocos chance of getting something from the game and the final whistle was welcomed by the Bitton players as some shattered players walked off the field.
An excellent all round team performance which showed you have to sometimes do the ugly things in football to get a result. Hard work, Fitness, determination and team work all need to be part of our game as well as the speed, skill and passing.
Player of the match-Meg Price/Nat Hole- Solid all afternoon and another clean sheet
Gallagher,Knight,Price,Hole,Tugwell,Hurst,L Jones,Baker, Scrace,B Jones,James,Parfitt, Hodgson
(Pictures in the photo section)
Cheltenham Spa 0 v 0 Bitton
Bitton got there season off to a dissapointing start as they were held to a goaless draw by Cheltenham Spa. Bitton dominated the game from start to finish and all they were lacking was that killer instinct in front of goal. The fact the Cheltenham keeper was probably player of the match tells the story.
Bitton were fast out of the blocks and got there passing game going straight away despite playing against a strong wind.The front two of B Jones & James were holding the ball up well and bringing the midfield into play and it was James who was the first to test the keeper as she saw her rasping drive tipped away by the keeper. Bitton were lucky to escape when a Cheltenham corner saw ther midfielder rise unchallenged in the box but fortunately she could not direct her header goalwards. Bitton should have taken the lead on 15 minutes when James wriggled away from her marker and squared the ball for B Jones but her side foot shot came back of the left hand post and was cleared away by an overworked Cheltenham defence. 5 Minutes later the referee awarded a free kick on the edge of the area for hand ball when the offence was clearly inside the box and should have given a penalty.Nat Hole wasted the free kcik as frustration began to creep into Bittons game.Still playing against the wind more good football created chances for James,B & L Jones and Hurst but the Cheltenham keeper was in fine form. 5 minutes before the break a great through ball from L Jones saw James racing clear on goal but she hesitated and lost the oppertunity to shoot as she was crowded out by the recovering defenders.
If anything Bitton dominated the second half even more with the wind behind there back and once again the keeper was proving to be Cheltenhams stand out player as she tipped over a fierce James drive and scrambled to get to 2 L Jones long range efforts. Move of the game came in the 70th minute as some great neat passing down the right between Knight,Scrase and James saw the latter float a great cross in to the box where B Jones hit a powerfull first time volley which brought a fantastic reaction save from the ever impressive keeper. With Hole and Price in control at the back apart from a few lapses in concentration one which saw Cheltenham hit a post. Bitton continued to poor forward. They were denied a certain penalty when the ref turned down hand ball appeals in the box when it was clear to everyone else in the ground,including there manager that the girl nearly caught the ball. There was still time for a few more goalmouth scrambles but it had proved not to be Bittons day. In another game we could have won 8-0 but there keeper had one of those inspired games.
Could not ask for any more effort from the team and they did everything apart from get that ball into the net,unfortunately thats what matters and they had to settle for a point.
Player of the match-Leanne Jones-Some crunching tackles and probing runs all afternoon
(Pictures in the photo section)
Bitton were fast out of the blocks and got there passing game going straight away despite playing against a strong wind.The front two of B Jones & James were holding the ball up well and bringing the midfield into play and it was James who was the first to test the keeper as she saw her rasping drive tipped away by the keeper. Bitton were lucky to escape when a Cheltenham corner saw ther midfielder rise unchallenged in the box but fortunately she could not direct her header goalwards. Bitton should have taken the lead on 15 minutes when James wriggled away from her marker and squared the ball for B Jones but her side foot shot came back of the left hand post and was cleared away by an overworked Cheltenham defence. 5 Minutes later the referee awarded a free kick on the edge of the area for hand ball when the offence was clearly inside the box and should have given a penalty.Nat Hole wasted the free kcik as frustration began to creep into Bittons game.Still playing against the wind more good football created chances for James,B & L Jones and Hurst but the Cheltenham keeper was in fine form. 5 minutes before the break a great through ball from L Jones saw James racing clear on goal but she hesitated and lost the oppertunity to shoot as she was crowded out by the recovering defenders.
If anything Bitton dominated the second half even more with the wind behind there back and once again the keeper was proving to be Cheltenhams stand out player as she tipped over a fierce James drive and scrambled to get to 2 L Jones long range efforts. Move of the game came in the 70th minute as some great neat passing down the right between Knight,Scrase and James saw the latter float a great cross in to the box where B Jones hit a powerfull first time volley which brought a fantastic reaction save from the ever impressive keeper. With Hole and Price in control at the back apart from a few lapses in concentration one which saw Cheltenham hit a post. Bitton continued to poor forward. They were denied a certain penalty when the ref turned down hand ball appeals in the box when it was clear to everyone else in the ground,including there manager that the girl nearly caught the ball. There was still time for a few more goalmouth scrambles but it had proved not to be Bittons day. In another game we could have won 8-0 but there keeper had one of those inspired games.
Could not ask for any more effort from the team and they did everything apart from get that ball into the net,unfortunately thats what matters and they had to settle for a point.
Player of the match-Leanne Jones-Some crunching tackles and probing runs all afternoon
(Pictures in the photo section)
Nailsea United ladies 1 v 4 Bitton Ladies
S James, B Hurst,M Price, G Baker
Bitton Ladies travelled to Nailsea who have just been promoted to the south west league and produced an all action display to come away with a comfortable victory which should have been far more convincing. All aspects of there game came together today with great work rate off the ball and excellent passing and moving when in possession. They looked strong, fit and quick and Nailsea really struggled to cope with Bitton all afternoon. Every player looked at the top of there game individually but it was the team ethic that was most impressive with constant encouragement and support throughout the game.
Bitton started the game at a great pace and it was not long before they created the first chance of the afternoon as a through ball from Leanne Jones saw Sharifa James racing clear but the home keeper rushed out quickly to block. The game threatened to turn nasty with Laura Tugwell involved in a couple of heavy challenges with the home striker. One of these challenges resulted in a little scuffle with Meg Price coming in to act as peacemaker and pick on the biggest player they had. L Jones and Grace Baker were really dominating the much bigger Nailsea midfield and were feeding the wide players well with Becky Hurst in particular causing there right back numerous problems. Several strong runs down the left from Hurst resulted in some great crosses where Bitton players really should have done better when well placed. Tugwell was having a great game at left back and playing some great balls down the line to Hurst. Bitton broke the deadlock when James gave Bitton the lead on 10 minutes when she nipped in front of the keeper to poke home a cross from the left. Shortly after Hurst received a ball and skipped past several challenges down the left wing before being tripped from behind for a free kick. She stepped up to take the free kick herself and her high looping shot struck the bar and bounced down into the area where a goal mouth scramble followed and eventually Nailsea cleared for a corner. Next to be denied by the keeper was Baker after some great football Becky Jones squared the ball and Baker rushed from midfield towards goal but the keeper made another excellent save rushing out to dive at her feet. With the back four of Tugwell, Char Knight, Meg Price and Nat Hole all looking strong in the tackle and composed on the ball it allowed Bitton to attack with numbers and they went close on several occasions. Hurst delivered a number of good corners which could have resulted in goals had Bitton players attacked the ball better.
The second half started with Bitton playing up the steep hill expecting to be put under some pressure but they were to be even more dominant in this half creating chance after chance with some great passing moves that cut the Nailsea defence to pieces. They did grab a second when after a stinging left foot volley from James which the keeper could only parry Hurst was first to react to drive the ball home. Nailsea then pulled one back against the run of play as a long free kick tested Chloe Gallagher in goal and she could only palm the ball against the post. The home striker was first to the ball to tap into an empty net. Rather than letting there heads drop Bitton were straight on the attack again and with L Jones really dominating the midfield now Bitton went close once again with shots from James, B Jones and Small. It was 3-1 on 70 minutes when after another good corner Meg Price volleyed home from the edge of the area. A few more half chances were missed before L Jones had a simple tap in at the far post which she somehow failed to connect with. Substitute Holly Fox then sliced the ball wide after a pop shot from the edge of the box. They were not to be denied though as Baker slammed home Bittons 4th from the edge of the area to complete a great win.
Bitton produced a superb performance today full off endeavour and quality. They must be aware though such wasteful finishing may cost them in tougher game this season
Player of the match-Becky Hurst: Looked dangerous all afternoon, delivered some excellent balls into the box and capped it off with a goal
(Pictures in the photo section)
Bitton started the game at a great pace and it was not long before they created the first chance of the afternoon as a through ball from Leanne Jones saw Sharifa James racing clear but the home keeper rushed out quickly to block. The game threatened to turn nasty with Laura Tugwell involved in a couple of heavy challenges with the home striker. One of these challenges resulted in a little scuffle with Meg Price coming in to act as peacemaker and pick on the biggest player they had. L Jones and Grace Baker were really dominating the much bigger Nailsea midfield and were feeding the wide players well with Becky Hurst in particular causing there right back numerous problems. Several strong runs down the left from Hurst resulted in some great crosses where Bitton players really should have done better when well placed. Tugwell was having a great game at left back and playing some great balls down the line to Hurst. Bitton broke the deadlock when James gave Bitton the lead on 10 minutes when she nipped in front of the keeper to poke home a cross from the left. Shortly after Hurst received a ball and skipped past several challenges down the left wing before being tripped from behind for a free kick. She stepped up to take the free kick herself and her high looping shot struck the bar and bounced down into the area where a goal mouth scramble followed and eventually Nailsea cleared for a corner. Next to be denied by the keeper was Baker after some great football Becky Jones squared the ball and Baker rushed from midfield towards goal but the keeper made another excellent save rushing out to dive at her feet. With the back four of Tugwell, Char Knight, Meg Price and Nat Hole all looking strong in the tackle and composed on the ball it allowed Bitton to attack with numbers and they went close on several occasions. Hurst delivered a number of good corners which could have resulted in goals had Bitton players attacked the ball better.
The second half started with Bitton playing up the steep hill expecting to be put under some pressure but they were to be even more dominant in this half creating chance after chance with some great passing moves that cut the Nailsea defence to pieces. They did grab a second when after a stinging left foot volley from James which the keeper could only parry Hurst was first to react to drive the ball home. Nailsea then pulled one back against the run of play as a long free kick tested Chloe Gallagher in goal and she could only palm the ball against the post. The home striker was first to the ball to tap into an empty net. Rather than letting there heads drop Bitton were straight on the attack again and with L Jones really dominating the midfield now Bitton went close once again with shots from James, B Jones and Small. It was 3-1 on 70 minutes when after another good corner Meg Price volleyed home from the edge of the area. A few more half chances were missed before L Jones had a simple tap in at the far post which she somehow failed to connect with. Substitute Holly Fox then sliced the ball wide after a pop shot from the edge of the box. They were not to be denied though as Baker slammed home Bittons 4th from the edge of the area to complete a great win.
Bitton produced a superb performance today full off endeavour and quality. They must be aware though such wasteful finishing may cost them in tougher game this season
Player of the match-Becky Hurst: Looked dangerous all afternoon, delivered some excellent balls into the box and capped it off with a goal
(Pictures in the photo section)
Bitton 0 v 0 Bridgewater
Bitton Ladies wrapped up there pre season campaign with a goaless draw against a decent Bridgewater team
Another good performance from Bitton should give them confidence going into the first game of the season next week against Cheltenham spa.
Bitton started very well and some excellent passing meant many chances being created for the front two of Becky Jones & Sharifa James and they both went close in the opening minutes.New signing Robyn Scrase was showing up well at right midfield and Leanne Jones & Grace Baker were again dominating the midfield and making some crunching tackles. Baker had a great chance when after breaking from midfield the defence backed off but she shot weakly straight at the keeper.Scrase also had a couple of half chances which the keeper delt with. The Bridgwater keeper was in fine form and she pushed away efforts from L Jones and James before B Jones tried her luck from long range but her well struck shot went staright at the keeper.
The back four and keeper were in there usual commanding from and were giving nothing away. They were fortunate on one occasion when after a free kicked was not cleared the ball squirmed onto the post before Chloe Gallagher dived on the ball just as the striker looked like they would finish.
Bitton continued to create a number of chances in the second half and continued there excellent passing game. Bitton appealled for a penalty as Sacha Ferris was tripped but the referee awarded a free kick on the edge of the box.
The real stuff starts next week and the team must be confident going into the new season and if they continue to work hard and do the basics there is no reason why they could not have a very sucessful season-need to start taking these chances tho
Another good performance from Bitton should give them confidence going into the first game of the season next week against Cheltenham spa.
Bitton started very well and some excellent passing meant many chances being created for the front two of Becky Jones & Sharifa James and they both went close in the opening minutes.New signing Robyn Scrase was showing up well at right midfield and Leanne Jones & Grace Baker were again dominating the midfield and making some crunching tackles. Baker had a great chance when after breaking from midfield the defence backed off but she shot weakly straight at the keeper.Scrase also had a couple of half chances which the keeper delt with. The Bridgwater keeper was in fine form and she pushed away efforts from L Jones and James before B Jones tried her luck from long range but her well struck shot went staright at the keeper.
The back four and keeper were in there usual commanding from and were giving nothing away. They were fortunate on one occasion when after a free kicked was not cleared the ball squirmed onto the post before Chloe Gallagher dived on the ball just as the striker looked like they would finish.
Bitton continued to create a number of chances in the second half and continued there excellent passing game. Bitton appealled for a penalty as Sacha Ferris was tripped but the referee awarded a free kick on the edge of the box.
The real stuff starts next week and the team must be confident going into the new season and if they continue to work hard and do the basics there is no reason why they could not have a very sucessful season-need to start taking these chances tho
Bitton 1 v 4 St Nicholas
Bitton Ladies suffered there first pre season defeat as they went down to a young St Nicholas side.St Nicks are an under 16 side from last year who have played together since kids football and they looked like a team that knew what each other were doing while Bitton looked a team of individuals. This is a new Bitton side so it will take a few games for the girls to get to know each other. Apparently boosted by a few players from other teams at a higher level St Nicks looked faster and fitter for most of the game and deserved there win.
The game started in a very scrappy fashion with neither side being able to get a hold of the ball. It was the away side who got into there stride first tho and several penetrating runs down the right wing saw some dangerous balls into the box. The centre back pairing of Nat Hole and Meg Price were excellent all night and they were needed on numerous occasions in the opening 20 minutes the prevent St Nicks taking the lead. The deadlock was broken tho when a corner was delivered into the box and parried by Emma Case in goal then after a goalmouth scramble the striker forced the ball home. Bittons first attack saw Becky Hurst and Leanne Jones link up well before feeding the ball to Becky Jones but her shot went straight at the keeper. The lead was doubled straight after as the lively winger skipped past Laura Tugwell before delivering a pin point cross to the far post which was headed home. Bitton had the ball in the back of the net 10 mins later as B Jones threaded a ball through to her strike partner L Jones who took a touch and lofted it over the advancing keeper only to be denied by the linesmans flag. In an almost identical move 5 minutes later Bitton did pull one back with L Jones sliding the ball past the keeper after being played through. Bitton were not playing well tho and St Nicks increased there lead when Emma Case in goal came rushing out when staying on her line would have been a better option and the winger skipped round her and crossed for the striker to finish into an open net.
The second half was a pretty dire affair with Bitton closing down the space better and not allowing St Nicks so much time on the ball.St Nicks did get a fourth when a ball over the top was finished with an angled drive into the bottom corner. Bitton rarely threatened in the second half apart from when Deb Small should have done better when being played in but after just arriving on the pitch her first touch let here down.The closest they game was a Nat Hole Free Kick which sailed over the bar.
A tough game against a good young side. Bitton will be hoping to improve when they travel to play Nailsea United on Sunday
Player of the match-Meg Price
Bitton-Case,Knight,Price,Hole,Gallagher,Hurst,Baker,Hodgson,Parfitt,B Jones, L Jones—Johns, Tugwell, Carr, Small, Fox
The game started in a very scrappy fashion with neither side being able to get a hold of the ball. It was the away side who got into there stride first tho and several penetrating runs down the right wing saw some dangerous balls into the box. The centre back pairing of Nat Hole and Meg Price were excellent all night and they were needed on numerous occasions in the opening 20 minutes the prevent St Nicks taking the lead. The deadlock was broken tho when a corner was delivered into the box and parried by Emma Case in goal then after a goalmouth scramble the striker forced the ball home. Bittons first attack saw Becky Hurst and Leanne Jones link up well before feeding the ball to Becky Jones but her shot went straight at the keeper. The lead was doubled straight after as the lively winger skipped past Laura Tugwell before delivering a pin point cross to the far post which was headed home. Bitton had the ball in the back of the net 10 mins later as B Jones threaded a ball through to her strike partner L Jones who took a touch and lofted it over the advancing keeper only to be denied by the linesmans flag. In an almost identical move 5 minutes later Bitton did pull one back with L Jones sliding the ball past the keeper after being played through. Bitton were not playing well tho and St Nicks increased there lead when Emma Case in goal came rushing out when staying on her line would have been a better option and the winger skipped round her and crossed for the striker to finish into an open net.
The second half was a pretty dire affair with Bitton closing down the space better and not allowing St Nicks so much time on the ball.St Nicks did get a fourth when a ball over the top was finished with an angled drive into the bottom corner. Bitton rarely threatened in the second half apart from when Deb Small should have done better when being played in but after just arriving on the pitch her first touch let here down.The closest they game was a Nat Hole Free Kick which sailed over the bar.
A tough game against a good young side. Bitton will be hoping to improve when they travel to play Nailsea United on Sunday
Player of the match-Meg Price
Bitton-Case,Knight,Price,Hole,Gallagher,Hurst,Baker,Hodgson,Parfitt,B Jones, L Jones—Johns, Tugwell, Carr, Small, Fox
Shepton Mallet 1 v 4 Bitton
Bitton Ladies got there pre season campaign off to a good start with a comfortable win against Shepton Mallet from the Somerset County league.
Despite the fact Bitton had 5 players making there debuts Bitton came flying out of the blocks and took the lead on 15 minutes when new signing Nat Parfitt received a cross on the right side of the area cut inside her marker and drilled the ball left footed into the bottom corner.
With the defence looking solid it allowed Bitton to attack at will and with the front pairing of Becky Jones & Sharifa James looking dangerous there was numerous chances created. Leanne Jones & Becky Hurst were causing the home defence problems with there pace and the Shepton keeper made several great saves from James & Hurst to keep the score down. Bitton did grab a second when after a succession of corners where they went close a vicious in swinging corner from Leanne Jones flicked off a Shepton head and into the roof of the net.
New signing Grace Baker was working tirelessly in the middle and both full backs Knight and Tugwell were getting forward really well.
It was 3-0 on 35 mins when after some neat play down the left from Nicola Johns the ball ended up with Hurst lofting the ball over the advancing keeper.
The second half continued with Bitton dominating the game and they were guilty of a lot of missed chances that should have seen them add several more goals. The home keeper continued to make some great saves including turning a good James strike onto the post. Bitton did finally get a fourth when the excellent Baker saw her left foot shot deflected past the stranded keeper.
The referee, obviously feeling sorry for Shepton Mallett decided to award the home side a penalty in the final minute when nobody else in the ground could see anything. They converted the penalty with there only shot of the whole game
A good start to pre season in a game where the score should have been far more convincing
Player of the Match-Grace Baker/Char Knight
Despite the fact Bitton had 5 players making there debuts Bitton came flying out of the blocks and took the lead on 15 minutes when new signing Nat Parfitt received a cross on the right side of the area cut inside her marker and drilled the ball left footed into the bottom corner.
With the defence looking solid it allowed Bitton to attack at will and with the front pairing of Becky Jones & Sharifa James looking dangerous there was numerous chances created. Leanne Jones & Becky Hurst were causing the home defence problems with there pace and the Shepton keeper made several great saves from James & Hurst to keep the score down. Bitton did grab a second when after a succession of corners where they went close a vicious in swinging corner from Leanne Jones flicked off a Shepton head and into the roof of the net.
New signing Grace Baker was working tirelessly in the middle and both full backs Knight and Tugwell were getting forward really well.
It was 3-0 on 35 mins when after some neat play down the left from Nicola Johns the ball ended up with Hurst lofting the ball over the advancing keeper.
The second half continued with Bitton dominating the game and they were guilty of a lot of missed chances that should have seen them add several more goals. The home keeper continued to make some great saves including turning a good James strike onto the post. Bitton did finally get a fourth when the excellent Baker saw her left foot shot deflected past the stranded keeper.
The referee, obviously feeling sorry for Shepton Mallett decided to award the home side a penalty in the final minute when nobody else in the ground could see anything. They converted the penalty with there only shot of the whole game
A good start to pre season in a game where the score should have been far more convincing
Player of the Match-Grace Baker/Char Knight